Joelinton just returned from injury, but is another setback looming?

Newcastle United Face Potential Joelinton Setback Amid Suspension Risk

Newcastle United could soon be without Joelinton once again, just after welcoming the Brazilian midfielder back from injury. The 27-year-old recently returned to action in Newcastle’s 3-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, having spent a month sidelined due to a knee injury. Now, as he prepares for his first Premier League start since his recovery, he faces the risk of another spell on the sidelines—this time due to suspension.

Joelinton is set to feature when Newcastle take on West Ham United at the London Stadium on Monday night, with kick-off scheduled for 8 PM. However, the Brazilian enters the game walking a disciplinary tightrope, as he is just one booking away from a two-match Premier League suspension.

So far this season, Joelinton has accumulated nine yellow cards in league matches. Earlier in the campaign, he was suspended for one game after reaching five bookings within Newcastle’s opening 19 matches. As a result, he missed the Magpies’ December trip to Ipswich Town. Since serving that ban, he has picked up four more yellow cards, bringing him dangerously close to another suspension.

According to Premier League rules, any player who receives ten yellow cards before their team’s 32nd league match of the season must serve a two-match suspension. With Newcastle still needing to play five more league games before reaching that threshold, Joelinton must now navigate upcoming fixtures against West Ham, Brentford, Leicester City, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace without receiving another booking.

If he manages to avoid a yellow card in these matches, he will escape suspension. However, if he is booked against West Ham on Monday, he will be forced to serve an immediate two-match ban. This would rule him out of the games against Brentford and Leicester City, meaning he would not be available again in the Premier League until Newcastle’s clash with Manchester United on April 13.

Given Joelinton’s aggressive playing style and his role as a combative presence in Newcastle’s midfield, avoiding a booking over five matches could prove difficult. His absence would be a significant blow for Eddie Howe’s side, especially as they push for a strong finish in the league. Newcastle will be hoping their influential midfielder can maintain his discipline and remain available during this crucial period of the season.