Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has backed Joelinton to earn a place in Brazil's World Cup squad after national boss Tite made an appearance at St James' Park over the weekend. The Selecao chief took his place in the directors' box before kick-off to cast his eye over the Magpies midfielder, as well as Bruno Guimaraes, Philippe Coutinho and Douglas Luiz.
Joelinton seized the opportunity with both hands, impressing from the outset and finding the net as Newcastle went 3-0 up in the second-half. When quizzed about the performance and the 26-year-old's chances of earning a call-up for the Qatar showpiece, Howe backed the fan-favourite to make the cut.
“Of course, I’d like him to go to the World Cup for obvious reasons for Joe,” he said. “He’s a top, top player, top person. I’m sure the Brazil manager’s very aware of Joelinton and his qualities and what he can bring, his versatility.
