Joelinton says he could never have imagined winning the player of the year award at Newcastle United - but insists he has not changed the way he goes about his business in the last 12 months.
The Brazilian has played 18 times in central midfield and has been nothing short of a revelation in the engine room with his commanding displays winning the backing of the supporters. Having gave up the number 9 shirt to allow Callum Wilson to take on the iconic number, Joelinton has still played in attack and scored twice in his nine matches up front.
When asked if he could believe he'd win the player of the year gong at St James', Joelinton said: "No, I didn't imagine it. The way it always is, I try to give my best - and this season was no different.
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"I have simply went game to game and tried to give my all. I just want to help the team.
"I am very pleased to win the player of the year award."
Joelinton was serenaded loudly by the St James' Park crowd on Monday evening as the Magpies signed off on home turf with a superb victory over the Gunners. The South American star did not get on the scoresheet but had a big hand in the own goal that set United on their way to the win.
Joelinton said: "It's always a pleasure on nights like that to play at St James' Park. It is an amazing feeling and amazing support.
"It is incredible what the fans did for us against Arsenal. I was very happy that we gave them the three points."
Newcastle will go into the final game of the season vying for a top 10 spot in the Premier League but they will need three points against Burnley.
Joelinton added: "We played really well vs Arsenal, we actually controlled the game and pressed them high. We played with the ball and had a lot of control.
"We have to be very happy with the three points against the Gunners. We just need to keep going until the end against Burnley."
