Newcastle United star issues heartfelt message as official club statement confirms major blow

Joelinton has issued a message to Newcastle United supporters after undergoing surgery on a thigh injury.

The Brazilian was forced off during the 3-0 FA Cup victory over Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland on January 6. Magpies' boss Eddie Howe believed the player would be out for a minimum of six weeks but a further assessment revealed greater damage.

Joelinton went under the knife on Tuesday and will spend four months recovering. The 27-year-old is at risk of missing the remainder of the campaign but an official update issued by Newcastle suggests he could return in the final month. Howe's men face Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford in May.

"Newcastle United can confirm that Joelinton has successfully undergone surgery on a thigh injury sustained earlier this month," the statement read. "The midfielder will now commence a period of rehabilitation overseen by the club’s medical team and is expected to return to action in May 2024. Everyone at Newcastle United wishes Joelinton a speedy recovery."

Joelinton has now issued his own statement. He posted on Instagram: "Today begins another challenge in my life and career, and it is with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face that I am writing this.

"But a challenge that I will overcome as I have already overcome many others, today begins another beginning in which I will dedicate myself and do my best to recover well and get back to doing what I love in the best way possible.

"Thank you everyone for your love and support! I’ll be back soon."

By the time Joelinton returns to action he'll be into the final 12 months of his contract but Newcastle remain hopeful of striking a new agreement.

It has been a stop-start campaign for the Brazil international after being restricted to 23 appearances. His absence, alongside Joe Willock and Elliot Anderson, means United currently only have three fully fit senior midfielders.