Joelinton endures night to forget as Leverkusen hold Newcastle | OneFootball

Newcastle United will rue conceding a late equaliser in the 2-2 draw versus Bayer Leverkusen, leaving them in 12th place in the Champions League table.

Bruno Guimaraes scored an own goal, but the Magpies cancelled Leverkusen’s lead through Anthony Gordon in the second half.

Lewis Miley then came off the bench to replace the ineffective Joelinton and scored what should have been the winner, but Newcastle let Leverkusen take a point.

Joelinton’s performances in the engine room have become a source of concern following some recent displays.

The Brazilian struggled to influence the game, losing seven out of nine duels as the game went by him.

Journalist Lee Ryder gave him a 5/10 rating and stated how he ‘never quite got going’ against Leverkusen.

The Newcastle midfielder has only scored one goal in the Champions League and the Premier League.

Manager Eddie Howe is clearly a fan of the 29-year-old, having made him a mainstay in the team.

Howe has relied on his aggression, ability to impose himself on the opposition, and cutting edge in the final third.

However, Joelinton’s recent performances will prompt him to reconsider his stance.

Miley deserves to take Joelinton’s place in the Newcastle team

Miley changed the entire rhythm of Newcastle’s midfield after coming on, offering controlled intensity, cleaner progression and end product with his late strike.

The teenager is in a rich vein of form and looks increasingly comfortable dictating the tempo in high-stakes European games.

While Joelinton’s physical presence remains valuable, his recent dip makes it harder to justify the current pecking order.

Miley’s composure, forward thrust, and growing confidence give Newcastle a different dimension, one they have badly needed in tight contests.

If Howe is serious about restoring balance and dynamism to his midfield, Miley should be starting games.