Joaozinho has declared he is willing to play any position to help Newcastle through their recent struggles. The Brazilian midfielder made his return from injury in the match against Coventry City (1-4) and is eager to restore confidence in the team.
The 30-year-old had missed the early part of the season due to a thigh injury sustained during a friendly against Strasbourg. He featured for the final half an hour against Coventry, marking his first appearance of this season.
Newcastle noticeably lacked leadership in the absence of Joaozinho and Dan Burn, suffering two hefty away defeats on the trot, while head coach Matthias Jaisle continues to hunt for the right blend of players.
Joaozinho ready to adapt to Jaisle
Under Eddie Howe, Joaozinho predominantly operated in a midfield trio. However, with Jaisle's preference for a 4-2-3-1 formation, the Brazilian's role in the new system remains to be fully defined.
The player himself isn’t fazed by this.
Joaozinho said:
We haven’t discussed it too much with the coach yet, since I’ve only just returned.
Whatever position he puts me in, I’ll do everything I can for the team and the fans, just as I always have.
I came on in midfield, and it’s not vastly different from how we played under Eddie. I’m sure the situation will improve.
Originally joining Newcastle as a central striker, Joaozinho has transitioned to become one of the key figures in midfield.
Is Joaozinho ready to face Aston Villa?
Newcastle's next fixture is against Aston Villa, and Jaisle will need to decide if his vice-captain is fit enough to return to the starting lineup.
Joaozinho believes he is close to peak condition, although he acknowledges the difference between training and match intensity.
The midfielder explained:
I think I’m not far from full fitness. I’ve worked hard ahead of my return.
Of course, the physical demands in a game are different from training, but I feel good. I hope to get back to full fitness as soon as possible.
The Brazilian’s return could be a significant boost for Newcastle. The team has been lacking physicality and confidence in midfield, and Joaozinho has the potential to inject both.
Now Jaisle must find the right role for him within his setup, and Joaozinho is ready to accept any decision from the coach.
