Newcastle United player given big lift as he faces up to 'long absence'

The midfielder will miss the club’s games against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest after being shown his 10th yellow card of the season in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Joelinton will be back for the April 2 home game against Manchester United.

"With the two games we’ve got to come before the international break, that’s going to be a long absence for him,” said United head coach Eddie Howe.

“I thought it was a harsh booking. He plays on the edge, he’s a fierce competitor, and I thought he played very well again today, so we’re going to certainly miss him.”

Joelinton last week missed out on a place in the Brazil squad for a March 25 friendly against World Cup semi-finalists Morocco. Club-mate Bruno Guimaraes was also not selected.

However, the uncapped Joelinton was given encouragement by international Brazil manager Ramon Menezes as he pushes for a first senior call-up.

Menezes said: “Joelinton’s a great player, and can fit in as a defensive midfielder, (or) midfielder. He’s a strong player who we’re watching, and who can wear the shirt of the national team at any time.”

Joelinton, signed from Hoffenheim in the summer of 2019 in a £40million deal, has previously spoken about his international ambitions.

“I still believe (I can play for Brazil), and I’m very positive,” the 26-year-old. “All I can do is keep up the hard work, give my best and if the chance will come, I will be ready.”