Joelinton has thanked Newcastle United's fanbase for showing him the "affection and recognition" that has followed his best run of form for the Magpies. Despite being dropped back into the midfield, the former Hoffenheim star has not moaned and his steady displays in the engine room have made him a supreme candidate for player of the season.
The South American was taken aback by a huge flag with his name emblazoned across it on the Christ the Redeemer statue from his homeland. It was Wor Flags who produced the epic flag before displaying at the Gallowgate End during Joelinton's superb run of form.
Having endured some tough times as a centre-forward with his £40million price tag weighing heavy, Joelinton has shown what can be achieved when you refuse to give up. And he wanted to send a message to supporters after seeing his flag flown proudly at St James' Park this season.
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He told Chronicle Live: "It is a source of great pride. I am very happy with the affection and recognition of the fans. This shows that my work is not even done, in the right way. The fans are the ones who helps us the most in matches. We play for them. And having these honours (the banner) is very gratifying."
Joelinton's name has been chanted loud and proud at games this season with supporters echoing the Brazilian's name the moment they step off the train at Kings Cross for London matches in recent weeks. Again it is something that has left Joelinton buzzing with pride.
He added: "I can only thank you for that too, and say that they are a great motivation for me and that I will always dedicate myself and give myself in the games to help Newcastle to win the victories."
The 25-year-old has ticked past 100 games for Newcastle and this season he has been a mainstay in the Magpies' starting XI. The plaudits have come from pundits up and down the country with Alan Shearer the first expert summariser to spot Joelinton's resurgence as a midfield player in the 1-1 draw against Norwich.
Reflecting on getting past 100 games for Newcastle, Joelinton said: "I always believed that I could build a beautiful story at Newcastle, even going through more difficult periods, which is normal too. I am very happy to pass the 100 game mark, and I work very hard every day to keep evolving and reaching new goals. I hope I can still be much happier here."
And his views on being branded one of the top midfielders this season? For a player who handed over the number 9 shirt and put others first, his humility is there for all to see. He added: "For me, the most important thing is to be playing to help the team. It doesn't matter whether as a midfielder, striker or any other role. I am available to the coach to give my best on the field in any position."
Joelinton has paid tribute to Eddie Howe for not only sticking with him after some tough times but also giving him a new lease of life in midfield. Joelinton said: "I'm very happy to be able to play helping the team. Eddie is a great coach and a great person, and he's come to change the way our team plays. He is a very intelligent coach and knows how to make the team play."
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