Pundit ‘baffled’ by Newcastle star’s praise – They need ‘eleven new players’

Gabriel Agbonlahor believes Newcastle United “need eleven new players” and that the praise Joelinton has received is “baffling”.

Speaking last month, Alan Shearer admitted that he feels sorry for Joelinton. 

The forward joined Newcastle in 2019 for a fee in the region of £40m from German side Hoffenheim.

Newcastle need to flaunt ridiculous wealth in January

Joelinton has been unable to live up to expectations for the most part. But some have argued that his performances have improved under new boss Eddie Howe.

The Magpies currently sit 19th in the Premier League as they have only won once from their 18 games.

Agbonlahor has told Football Insider that Newcastle only need to keep Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin:

“I don’t see anything that I’m watching that shows me any quality,” Agbonlahor said.

“People are raving about Joelinton but how many goals has he scored? How many assists has he got?

“It’s alright looking busy, I just don’t understand. It baffles me.

“They need like 11 new players, seriously. Eight or nine can come straight in. Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin can keep their place but the rest I’d get rid of, to be honest.”

Elsewhere, Noel Whelan believes Newcastle will be “paying over the odds” for players in January:

“He’d be an amazing signing for Newcastle, absolutely,” Whelan said.

“I don’t think there’s anyone they won’t be willing to consider in January – and they’ll probably end up paying over the odds.

“As more and more games go by and they still don’t have the points on the board, they will get more and more desperate.

“If they drop out it will be horrible for them – all the excitement from that takeover will just drain from the club.

“January is so important, and the owners will put up whatever type of money to get the players in that Eddie Howe feels he needs to secure their safety.

“Lucas Digne would be a smart addition at just 28 years old – he can shine for a number of years to come. He’s got to hit the ground running if they’re going to get to that magic 40 point mark.”