Newcastle United powerhouse Joelinton has earned his first call-up to the Brazilian national side after a stellar campaign on Tyneside. The midfielder will link up with his fellow countrymen for friendlies against Guinea and Senegal next month.
Joelinton has been knocking on the door in recent months after turning around his club career with Newcastle. Former boss Tite looked at the Magpies midfielder before the World Cup but eventually decided against taking him to Qatar.
Bruno Guimaraes has also been selected for the pre-season clashes and reacted on social media moments before Newcastle's clash with Chelsea, tweeting: "Big Joe!" followed by three Brazilian flag emojis.
READ MORE: Chelsea v Newcastle United LIVE updates from Stamford Bridge
Speaking last year, Joelinton admitted it was his dream to represent his country on the international stage. "Every player dreams of that, right? Representing your nation is the highest point of your career," he said.
"It would be a huge honour to have the opportunity. But that'll only happen if I deliver great performances at Newcastle, so let's see what the future brings. I know that any chance is unlikely to happen ahead of the World Cup, but a team normally goes through a lot of changes after a competition like that.
"I just hope to be healthy and happy, putting in good displays for my team. That's the only way a player can earn the chance to wear the Brazil shirt."
Joelinton and Bruno will join up with the likes of Vinicius Jr, Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta, Marquinhos, Ederson and Allison for the two friendlies in June. The decision was taken by interim boss Ramon Menezes who is also taking charge of the Brazil youth team at the U20 World Cup presently.
READ NEXT
Newcastle to receive game-changing financial boost amid new sponsorship and Champions League bonuses
Nick Pope to miss Chelsea game and England duty after undergoing hand operation
Staveley's Champions League response, familiar faces return and John Terry fumes in Newcastle draw
Anthony Gordon earns England nod despite slow start to life at Newcastle United
Jason Tindall's Champions League message and strong response to Twitter storm
