Newcastle handed major injury boost, 27-year-old’s injury is not as bad as first feared

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Newcastle United have been able to welcome back players in recent weeks.

Indeed, the injury crisis at Newcastle this season has rarely ceded and has even caught the attention of other managers, such as Jurgen Klopp.

Whether or not it is the sole reason for the team’s malaise this season has been debated but it is something Eddie Howe is reportedly pointing to behind the scenes as part of the problem.

However, things have improved of late. Harvey Barnes is now back in action, while Elliot Anderson is also able to play some part in proceedings.

Howe has also talked up the recent return of Joe Willock and, thankfully, Alexander Isak has confirmed he is gradually working his way back up to full fitness.

With Nick Pope also reportedly not too far off, Newcastle have been handed yet more good news.

Joelinton injury: Newcastle latest

That’s because, according to The Daily Telegraph, Joelinton could return before the end of the season.

Earlier this year, there were fears the 27-year-old may never play for the club again after undergoing potentially season-ending groin surgery amid doubts about his long-term future having failed to agree a new contract.

Still, this report not only suggests that the club will hand the player a new deal (his current one is set to expire next summer) but it adds Joelinton’s rehabilitation is going well and that he could return earlier than expected.

Joelinton: Huge boost for Newcastle

Having the Brazilian back would be a major boost for Howe and his side, who could yet qualify for the Europa League.

Hugely valued by the Newcastle manager, he has been perhaps the shining example of the improvements Howe has yielded from the players he inherited from Steve Bruce.

Joelinton ranks within Newcastle’s top five players for tackles (1.9, via WhoScored), interceptions (1.1), key passes (1.1) and dribbles (1) on a per-game basis. A hugely important figure both defensively and going forward, it’s difficult to overstate his influence.

It will be fantastic to see him back.