"I'm so happy he's joined!" - Joelinton on Elanga signing and World Cup plans

Joelinton is back, and he’s been sorely missed.

Having missed the tail end of last season due to injury, the big Brazilian will hopefully be back to full fitness ahead of what’s looking to be the biggest season in recent memory.

In a new interview released by the club, big Joe has given his thoughts on his return, getting to play alongside new signing Anthony Elanga, and his World Cup ambitions at the end of the campaign.

Joelinton on Elanga transfer

It’s fair to say that new boy Anthony Elanga has already settled in quite well at St James’ Park.

The former Nottingham Forest star is proving to be a popular figure amongst the squad, with the likes of Will Osula, Joe Willock and Sven Botman clearly all close to the winger based on the behind-the-scenes footage we saw this week.

And whilst it looks like the pair haven’t met just yet, Joelinton is excited about the prospect of playing alongside the Swedish winger next season.

"He's a really good player with a lot of qualities. He's very fast, can score or assist and has been tough to play against so I'm happy he's now joined us!”

"He will be very welcomed into the group and we will do everything to make sure he feels at home and comfortable so he can do what he has been doing for Nottingham Forest. I'm very happy he has signed and I wish him all the best.”

Big Joe pushing for Brazil call

Missing out the final few games of last season also meant that Joelinton was not called up to be part of the Brazilian National Team for their World Cup qualifying fixtures.

But with Carlo Ancelotti now the helm, he'll be hoping to make a big impression on the new boss, having not been selected as often as he had hoped by Ancelotti’s predecessor.

“We have a lot of big matches and I want to be ready for everything. Being in the Brazil national team would be a result of what I'm doing here.”

“Of course, I have the World Cup in my mind and I want to be in the squad next year but I know I need to work hard for my club. If I have the chance to go and represent my country, I would be very proud.”

But as important as the National Team is to the 28-year-old, club still looks to come before country, which is what every Toon fan will be wanting to hear.

“For me, the most important thing is Newcastle, with the games we have here and the competitions we have to play, especially being back in the Champions League.”