Sky reporter slammed for offending Man Utd nemesis
Cameron Smith
- 28 Dec 2021 15:45 GMT
- 3 min read
Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff hit back at Sky Sports' post-match interviewer for his comments about Joelinton following the Magpies' 1-1 draw with Manchester United.
Joelinton was awarded Sky's 'Man of the Match' award following his impressive performance, and was selected, alongside Longstaff, to be interviewed after the game.
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After questioning Longstaff on the performance, the interviewer turned to Joelinton, and said: "Can I be completely honest? I didn't know you were that good."
Joelinton, Newcastle's record signing, joined the club from Hoffenheim for £36 million back in 2019, but has struggled in front of goal on Tyneside, scoring just 11 goals in 99 appearances.
However, he has been given a new lease of life in a central midfield position under Eddie Howe, and was sensational against Man Utd.
While Joelinton simply ignored the remark, and expressed his desire to work hard for the team, Longstaff chose to slam the reporter and the Brazilian's many critics.
The Newcastle academy graduate said: "Honestly, if you ask anyone in the dressing room we know he’s that good regardless of what the outside people say.
"I think the disrespect he gets is a disgrace to be honest.
"I can honestly say everyday in training he’s the best player. If he’s on your team, you’re winning. If you get Joel you’re sort of buzzing."
🗣 "The disrespect he gets is a disgrace, to be honest."
Sean Longstaff defends his teammate Joelinton as he feels the player has been unfairly criticised 👏 pic.twitter.com/JcGwJjWxgd— Football Daily (@footballdaily) December 27, 2021
Joelinton hasn't had an easy start to life in England, but two-and-a-half years on from his move to St James' Park, he seems to have a role in which he can thrive in.
Against Man Utd, his two shots were only bettered by Allan Saint-Maximin and Edinson Cavani, nobody made more than his four key passes, while he also topped tackles made (4) and interceptions (3).
It was an immense performance, and according to Longstaff, one that has been coming given his form in training.
The draw with Man Utd saw Newcastle go level on points with Burnley, on 11, although Sean Dyche's men do have four games in hand.
