Newcastle set Joelinton return date ahead of Forest, Liverpool and Brighton games

A likely return date has emerged for Joelinton as our midfield enforcer looks to step up his return from a knee injury.

The Brazilian was forced off against Fulham three weeks ago, leaving him to watch on from the sidelines during the highs of the Carabao Cup final semi-final victory over Arsenal and lows of 4-0 that demolition at the Etihad last Saturday.

Joelinton’s involvement in several upcoming key matches, none more so than a trip to Wembley, has become clearer with Nottingham Forest, Liverpool and West Ham to come in the Premier League and a FA Cup Fifth Round clash with Brighton. 

Joelinton return date reported

According to Craig Hope at The Mail, Joelinton WILL return in time for the Carabao Cup final and is hoping to be back in action next weekend.

After pushing to return behind the scenes, it's believed our midfield enforcer will miss tomorrow's clash with Nottingham Forest and our trip to Liverpool next Wednesday. 

However, Hope reports that he's been pencilled in for our FA Cup last 16 clash with Brighton next Sunday, meaning he should get some minutes in the tank against the Seagulls and West Ham before the Carabao Cup final.

Hope wrote: 'Joelinton is in line for a return to action two weeks before the Carabao Cup final. Howe said last week that he ‘hoped’ the Brazilian would be back in time for the March 16 showdown with Liverpool. He has been missing since injuring his knee at the start of the month and no return date has been given. 

'However, we can reveal that the FA Cup visit of Brighton on March 2 has been pencilled in for his comeback. That would give the midfielder a fortnight before the Wembley trip to build his match sharpness.'

Howe's Friday morning update

Eddie Howe gave an update on Joelinton in his Friday morning press conference, unsurprisingly crediting the 28-year-old for his work rate and desire to return soon.

"(Joelinton) is doing really well,” said Howe. “Pushing, as Joe always does. We just need to make sure we introduce him at the right time."

As eager as he is to get back into action, Joelinton must avoid going into the referee’s notebook when he returns in the league. The Brazilian is one yellow away from his 10th of the season and a two-match Premier League ban when he takes back to the grass.