Joelinton arrived at Newcastle United seven years ago and was appointed as vice-captain in August.

Joelinton believes Newcastle United “needed” fresh ideas during the summer transfer window.

A hectic few months resulted in Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Eddie Howe leaving the club. As a result, Joelinton earned a promotion to vice-captain in August.

The Brazilian - now 30 - is into his eighth season on Tyneside and has become one of the senior figures in the dressing room. Speaking to the club’s matchday programme, Joelinton claimed the change was necessary after a 12th-placed finish last season.

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‘Needed that’ - Joelinton

"I think this one's the biggest (summer of change),” he said. “We lose players and a lot of new players come in. But I think the club needed that, needed to change something to keep improving, because we bought a lot of young players.

“I've been here a long time, l have seen a lot of players, very good players that have been here, that have left the club. Now new players have come in with a lot of quality as well, young players that have a lot to grow, and have already shown their quality. They are here and they are good enough to be here.”

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Joelinton on Newcastle United youngsters

Toon chiefs took a youthful approach in the market, signing the likes of Ewen Jaouen (20), Bazoumana Toure (20), Aladji Bamba (20), Sean Steur (18) and Matias Fernandez-Pardo (21) to replace the old guard. On guiding the new arrivals, Joelinton added: "Players like Sean Steur that have done really well when he played.

“The good thing is they have a lot of things to improve as well, and they are here now and they are the future of the club. So it's a transition but I think we're doing good so far.

"I just try to help the young players and the new players. Tell them what the fans expect from us and what it means to play for the club.

“I think it’s a responsibility for the players that have been here for a long time to tell the new guys what it means, what the fans expect, what they want us to do. It’s about always giving everything for the badge, always fighting and trying your best every game.”

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