Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton says he is targeting a comeback “after the international break”.

The Brazilian has not kicked a ball in anger since pre-season following another setback in his battle with a muscular injury.

After finally getting to the bottom of the problem, though, Joelinton said that he is now close to playing first-team football again:

“The plan is to be back now after the international break. I am feeling really good. I have worked hard and worked smart; I can’t wait to be back and be with the team, the boys and the new players and in front of the fans again…”

“I would not say it has been good because I have not been able to play or do what I love. I want to help the club and the boys on the pitch at this moment. But I am recovering, and I am feeling good now. It has been a long journey since the end of last season, when I had my first injury, then came back and felt it again.”

“Now I am feeling better, and I can’t wait to be back on the pitch. I can’t wait to wear the shirt again and play for the fanbase again. I have really missed it.”

Joelinton will have a fight on his hands to start matches

Manager Matthias Jaissle has a whole host of options to choose from in the middle of the park. Nico Gonzalez, Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba all arrived during the summer transfer window.

With the likes of Lewis Miley, Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey also part of the first-team squad, Joelinton will know that he will have to prove himself to get back into the team.

Could other Newcastle stars return after the international break?

There is hope that Gonzalez (concussion), Ramsey (thigh), Will Osula (ankle), Amad Dedic (hamstring), Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Sean Steur (both fatigue), Ewen Jaouen and Dan Burn (both ankle) will be in contention to face Coventry City next month.

Anthony Elanga is slightly further behind in his recovery, but the Swedish international may still return to action at some point in October. Tino Livramento is set to undergo scans after picking up yet another injury.

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