Howe: I might drop Joelinton

EDDIE HOWE will consider dropping a ‘very remorseful’ Joelinton after the Newcastle midfielder was charged with drink-driving — but the head coach says the club’s Saudi Arabian owners will leave the decision to him. The Brazilian was arrested in the early hours of Thursday and will appear in court later this month. The Magpies host Fulham tomorrow and, although Joelinton has been integral to their rise up the Premier League, Howe says he could yet axe the 26-year-old from the team. ‘I’m going to have to reflect and make a decision closer to the game,’ he said. ‘Ultimately, I have to pick the best team to win the game, but I also have to take into account the situation around that.’

Of his player’s arrest and charge, Howe added: ‘It came very much as a shock. Joe is very remorseful and was very upset yesterday. He knows the seriousness of the situation. He understands his responsibilities.

‘We also understand, as a club, the seriousness of the situation. Everything will be dealt with internally. But we will back him and support him, while also educating him and helping him, that is important. He is very young, everyone makes mistakes. I think it is also important that we don’t over-react.’