Joelinton opens up on his 'difficult moments' at Newcastle United - and why he's happy on Tyneside

The Magpies smashed their club transfer record to bring the Brazillian to St James’s Park from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in the summer of 2019, though it hasn’t gone anywhere near to plan.

Joelinton’s goal in the 3-2 win over West Ham United last weekend was just his fifth in 64 Premier League matches.

However, over recent games, the 24-year-old has arguably put together his most consistent run of performances as a United player, which has offered hope that he can still enjoy some relative success on Tyneside.

Indeed, Joelinton wants to carry on his good form into future seasons as he aims to repay the “faith and affection”.

He told the club website: “It’s difficult to talk about. I think with things in general and the effect upon football means I’ve had some difficult moments and good times as well.

"I hope to be consistent across future seasons as this makes you more confident and happier in your life off the pitch, so I hope things work out on the pitch to improve life with my family and friends off it.

"But as I’ve always said, I’m happy here – I’ve been made to feel so welcome since I arrived.

"I hope to keep going and have better seasons ahead as I’ve always been so well received here and I’d like to repay all this faith and affection I’ve had since I got here.”

The former Brazil under-17s international’s contribution over the last three matches has lifted Newcastle eight points above the relegation zone with wins against Burnley and West Ham, plus a 2-2 with Tottenham Hotspur.

Joelinton was also on the scoresheet during the home fixture with Spurs – and he believes United need “two or three” more wins to retain their Premier League status.

Next up for Steve Bruce’s side is a trip to Liverpool on Saturday afternoon, a ground they haven’t won at since April 1994.

“I think we have a really good strong team and I think we’re strong mentally,” Joelinton said. “We can have a great game and achieve something.

"We had a meeting today and were told Newcastle haven’t won at Anfield for 27 years!

"I think we need to take this into the game with us and do our best. If we win, it will be incredible for all of us.

"I think that’s it – in our struggle we need to aim to win every game but I think two or three wins will be enough for safety.

"As I have already said, we need to take things game by game, look to our best in every match and who knows, we might finish the season in a better position than a lot of people expected.”

Steve Bruce’s side face Arsenal, Leicester City, Manchester City, Sheffield United and Fulham in their remaining fixtures after Saturday.

With a trip to Craven Cottage pencilled in on the final day of the season, United will hope to be safe by then.

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