Joelinton's comments on Newcastle future - December interview offers contract hope?

Amidst all the injury issues and lack of January signings, another worrying story to emerge last month surrounding Joelinton's seemingly uncertain future at the club.

Now surgery has ruled him out until May, some were reporting that he may have played his last game for the club, as contract talks have not progressed as he approaches the final 12 months of his deal.

However, in an interview with The Times in December, the man himself sounded relaxed about his future and revealed how keen he was to stay on Tyneside. He admitted 'there's nothing close', but suggested they'd made a 'good start' after beginning initial talks.

So, for all of the mass hysteria and headlines suggesting he may have played his last game for the club, the Brazilian sounded pretty relaxed about the situation.

As we've said before, it's highly likely his representatives have pushed for a pay-rise during the first round of talks, which is completely normal when a player becomes a key member of the squad. He'll have seen his best mate Bruno land a bumper deal at the club and will want to be recognised for his performances, but I believe a compromise will be reached. He is a huge presence in our midfield, seems settled on Tyneside and a massive part of Eddie Howe's plans.

With the 27-year-old facing a few months on the sidelines and reports suggesting another round of talks are expected to take place, I'm confident he signs an extension before the season is out.