Eddie Howe says that Joelinton will be good to go for Brazil later this month despite him missing the last couple of games of the season with a knock.
The £40million star has been called up by his country to face Guinea and Senegal in friendly fixtures in Barcelona and Lisbon this month. Joelinton is currently resting up but will be fine to pull on the famous yellow jersey of Brazil.
After Joelinton was hurt in the warm-up against Leicester, and the missed the score draw at Chelsea, Howe said: "I don't think it's fine now but hopefully by the time the internationals come round he'll be OK."
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Howe has helped transform Joelinton's fortunes from a troubled Newcastle forward into an international class midfielder. The fact that he has been called up as a midfielder is a testament to the work at Benton.
Indeed, the Brazil squad document names him alongside his Newcastle colleague Bruno Guimaraes and the likes of Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta in midfield. Joelinton is even in the midfield line-up ahead of Liverpool star Fabinho.
Brazil interim manager Ramon Menezes has made it clear he wants to use Joelinton in midfield ahead of any left wing or forward position. It's something that will leave Howe and his backroom staff thrilled.
Howe said: "Bruno came over in the dressing room to say Joe had been called up. Amazing news for someone who, for 18 months, has been incredible for me and the team.
"I felt he was a little bit unlucky not to go to the World Cup because his performances have been that strong for us. He's had to be patient and he's handled that disappointment really well.
"He was just normal Joe who went about his work in an incredible way. I'm so pleased for him and his family, it'll be a proud moment."
