Newcastle have been told that Joelinton was fortunate to go unpunished for a late tackle during the 3-1 win over Southampton in Premier League action. Goals from Alexander Isak (x2) and Sandro Tonali, the Magpies got back to winning ways over the weekend following the shock defeat at home to Bournemouth.

Eddie Howe's side moved back into the top five with those three points as Isak took his tally for the season up to 19 in all competitions. Though Jan Bednarek put the Saints in front, Isak struck back quickly with a four-minute brace while Tonali added a third just after half time.

Southampton did pull one back through Mateus Fernandes, but it was disallowed by VAR because of an offside, with the technology also used to award Newcastle a penalty, which Isak converted. However, that was not the hugely controversial decision in the game, with that instead involving Joelinton and a potential red card being avoided.

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In an attempt to keep hold of possession, the Brazilian midfielder caught Paul Onuachu very late on the ankle and while a foul was given, no caution was dished out by Sam Barrott. Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher was asked about the incident and subsequently offered a clear verdict.

Speaking on Sky Sports Ref Watch, he said: “Got lucky. Got lucky. I think yellow card, he goes through and catches him on the ankle just above the boot. Short distance, should have been a free-kick and a yellow card.” Had Joelinton been cautioned, it would have seen him go up to nine for the season.

A two-match ban will follow if those bookings do arrive in the next 15 games, and given how the 28-year-old likes to get stuck in, it is likely Howe will have to cope without him for two matches. Given how he has shined in a midfield trio alongside Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, not having him available will be a blow.

Thankfully for the Magpies, he avoided punishment on Saturday and claims it was worthy of a red card, having also seemingly been dismissed by Gallagher.