adminNewcastle United midfielder Joelinton is at risk of a suspension after being charged with improper conduct following an incident involving Sunderland, with the Premier League ready to step in.
The Brazilian could face a two-match ban, adding to concerns for Eddie Howe ahead of their return to league action against Crystal Palace this weekend.
Newcastle head into the fixture after a three-week break, which has given them time to recover from back-to-back setbacks against FC Barcelona in Europe and Sunderland in the heated Tyne-Wear derby.
Those results have left the Magpies sitting 12th in the table with seven games remaining, making their push for European qualification increasingly difficult.
The break, however, has allowed key players like Bruno Guimarães, Lewis Miley, and Fabian Schär to recover from injuries. Sandro Tonali, who missed the derby with a hip issue, has since returned to action during international duty.
If all are fit, Howe will have more midfield options alongside Joelinton, Jacob Ramsey, and Joe Willock.
Joelinton, who was not called up by Brazil and spent the break recovering from a toe problem, now faces a key decision point. The 30-year-old is one booking away from a suspension after picking up his ninth yellow card of the season during the derby clash at St James’ Park.
That caution came after a late flashpoint following a dramatic winner from Brian Brobbey, with tensions boiling over between both sides.
Under league rules, reaching 10 yellow cards before the 32nd game of the season triggers a two-match ban. Newcastle’s upcoming clash with Crystal Palace marks their 32nd league fixture, meaning Joelinton must avoid another booking to escape suspension and reset his disciplinary count.
Howe now faces a tactical dilemma—whether to risk starting one of his key midfielders or play it safe to avoid losing him for two crucial matches.
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