Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton is set to miss the rest of the 2023-24 season after undergoing surgery on his thigh.
The Brazilian was forced off in Newcastle's 3-0 win over Sunderland in the FA Cup earlier this month and missed the 3-2 defeat to Manchester City in the following match as a result. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe initially claimed Joelinton would be out for at least six weeks with the injury.
But a decision has since been made to operate on the 27-year-old's damaged thigh ligaments. Joelinton had surgery on Tuesday, January 23 with the operation likely to keep him out for the remainder of the season.
An update on Joelinton's status following surgery will be provided by Eddie Howe this Friday ahead of Saturday's FA Cup fourth-round trip to Fulham. Newcastle will be hoping to welcome some players back from injury in the coming matches with the likes of Jacob Murphy and Callum Wilson close - Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock and Matt Targett could also return next month.
Newcastle currently sit 10th in the Premier League table and have seen their season significantly hampered by injuries in recent months. Fulham are the last Premier League side Howe's team have beaten with eight of their last nine matches against top-flight sides ending in defeat.
Here is Newcastle United's current injury list and expected return dates...
5. Callum Wilson (chest)
Wilson managed to complete 90 minutes at Nottingham Forest but ended the match with his arm in a makeshift sling. It has since been revealed the striker suffered a pectoral injury in his chest. Has undergone surgery and is back out on the grass. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
6. Miguel Almiron (knee)
Forced off just 10 minutes after coming on against West Ham with a knee issue which will keep him sidelined for around a month. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images
7. Joelinton (thigh)
Joelinton picked up a thigh injury during Newcastle's 3-0 win over Sunderland. He was able to briefly play on before being withdrawn. Eddie Howe has ruled the Brazilian out for at least six weeks but surgery on the injury is likely to keep the midfielder out until the end of the season. Expected return date: Brighton (H) - 11/05 | Getty Images
8. Lewis Miley (back)
Lewis Miley injured his back on international duty. There were fears his season could be over, but he may still be able to play a part of the remainder of the campaign. Expected return: May 2024 Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images