Newcastle United handed major injury boost v Leeds United as £40m star spotted in training

Newcastle United are set to have Joelinton available for Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off against Leeds United.

There was slight concern surrounding the Brazilian after he was substituted in the 81st minute of the Magpies’ 2-0 defeat to title challengers Arsenal on Sunday.

Not many people thought too much about the 26-year-old’s withdrawal initially but his condition after full-time caused some worry.

Emerging from the tunnel at St James’ Park as local and national journalists waited pitchside in the mixed zone, the 26-year-old struggled to put weight on his ankle.

He limped down the touchline towards the player’s exit in the Leazes Corner before being greeted by his fiancée and the rest of his family.

Whatever the issue, it appears Joelinton has got over it quickly. In the latest training gallery released by the club, the £40m signing from Hoffenheim was pictured.

It’s likely Joelinton will remain part of the three-man midfield for the visit to Elland Road, unless Sean Longstaff is deemed fit enough to play.

The Geordie midfielder has missed home matches against Southampton and Arsenal after sustaining a foot injury during the 4-1 win at Everton on April 27.

United head coach Eddie Howe revealed after the weekend defeat to Arsenal that Longstaff would visit a specialist on Tuesday. Howe thought “it was a standard injury but now there may be a chance of something more serious.”

It is, however, good news. Longstaff has not broken a bone, though is still a doubt to face Leeds this weekend before returning for remaining fixtures against Brighton, Leicester City and Chelsea.

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