Newcastle United have confirmed that Joelinton has had surgery on his thigh injury picked up earlier this month.
The Brazilian was forced off in Newcastle's 3-0 win over Sunderland in the FA Cup. Head coach Eddie Howe initially stated Joelinton was facing a minimum of six weeks out after sustaining ligament damage but that has now been extended to four months with the club deciding surgery was the best option.
Joelinton's recovery from the operation is likely to keep him out for the rest of the season. But an official update issued by the club suggests that the 27-year-old could be back in action before the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
"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."
Newcastle's final match of the Premier League season is away to Brentford on May 19 (4pm kick-off). Next up for The Magpies is a trip to Fulham in the FA Cup fourth round.
Should Newcastle manage to progress to the final of the competition for the first time since 1999, their season will be extended to May 25. In the meantime, Howe will be hoping to welcome some key players back to action in the coming weeks. #
Jacob Murphy has returned to training after a dislocated shoulder while Callum Wilson is expected to be back from a calf injury by the end of the month.
Here is Newcastle's current injury list and expected return dates...
1. Matt Targett (achilles)
Targett has been missing since picking up a hamstring injury against Man Utd back in November. He has featured on the bench in their last couple of outings before dropping out v West Ham and Everton in what is understood to be a minor setback in his recovery. Expected return: Tottenham Hotspur (H) - 13/04 | Getty Images
2. Kieran Trippier (calf)
Trippier was forced off during the 3-0 win over Wolves with a calf injury. He has since been ruled out for over a month. Set for another couple of weeks out at least. Expected return: Crystal Palace (A) - 24/04 | Getty Images
3. Nick Pope (shoulder)
Nick Pope dislocated his shoulder against Manchester United in December and required surgery. Eddie Howe has said the goalkeeper is still a number of weeks away and isn't expected back until 'late April'. Expected return: Sheffield United (H) - 27/04 | Getty Images
4. Tino Livramento (ankle)
Livramento picked up a twisted ankle injury at Chelsea which ruled him out for the Manchester City trip. He returned against West Ham United before suffering another ankle injury which will keep him out for another couple of weeks. Expected return: Burnley (A) - 04/05 | Getty Images