A second-half goal from Joelinton gave the club a 1-0 win in last night’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium.
Joelinton had had a first-half goal disallowed for offside, and the midfielder had also missed a second-half chance.
“He’s mentally very strong,” said United’s head coach.
“He’s someone who has real resilience, and doesn’t get flustered either way, in success or more disappointing moments.
“When we needed him again, he was on the spot from Alex’s really good play out wide.
I’m really pleased for Joe whenever he scores, because he feeds off that confidence that goals bring.
I thought he played very well tonight.”
Bruno Guimaraes on Sky Sports: 'I want to thank Nick Pope. I think he's the best goalkeeper in the world.' #nufc
— Miles Starforth (@milesstarforth) January 24, 2023United are now just 90 minutes from the final at Wembley, with the second leg taking place next Tuesday night at St James’s Park.
“I think early in the game we started really well, created chances and moments that maybe on another day we’d have been expected to do better with,” said Howe.
“(The goal) didn’t come, and we needed to show patience and keep our control.
Long way to go.”
Howe added: “We go back to St James’ with our fans behind us.”
