Newcastle United fans will absolutely love what Joelinton said about his ‘He’s Brazilian’ chant

Joelinton has opened up on his relationship with Newcastle United supporters after playing a lead role in the Magpies impressive start to the Premier League season.

Eddie Howe’s side have lost just one game in all competitions this season and head into the break for the World Cup Finals sat in third place, just two points behind reigning champions Manchester City and a further five behind leaders Arsenal.

Joelinton’s consistently high level of performance in the heart of the United midfield have been a major factor in the undoubted progress made so far this season and the former Hoffenheim star is now a firm favourite with the St James Park faithful after moving on from challenging start to life on Tyneside.

Reflecting on the bond he has forged with Magpies supporters and the ‘confidence’ he gets from them, he told Soccer AM: “Every game at home is nice. I love to play at St James. Since the takeover, every game is full, the support they give us is so important and we are very happy to give them good performances and good results as well.

“It motivates me a lot (his terrace song). It’s nice, it’s lovely and that singing at the game gives me a lot more energy and a more confidence to keep playing and give the extra miles you sometimes need on the pitch. They give me that and I try to give me best for them.”

Joelinton’s hero status among United supporters is a far contrast from his introduction into life in the Premier League. Tasked with acting as a lone striker in a defence-minded Magpies side that consistently surrendered possession, the Brazilian struggled to adapt and looked low on confidence.

However, the arrival of current Magpies manager Eddie Howe and an unexpected switch into midfield has brought about a major change of fortunes as Joelinton’s pace, power and incredible work ethic led to calls for him to be included in Brazil’s World Cup Finals squad alongside team-mate Bruno Guimaraes.

Discussing his change in position and the impact of United boss Howe, he said: “I try my best. As a kid I always played in the middle, a second striker and now to play in the midfield again, I feel very comfortably and confident. I think my physique helps me. I think since the gaffer came, he helped me a lot in training, he gave me confidence and I am very happy to be in the middle. I hope I can continue to improve and take my game to another level. He’s a lovely guy, a lovely person and he tries to help everyone.”