Newcastle star Joelinton stops on the pitch at St

JOELINTON went from toon lead to balloon game fan in a spectacular gender reveal at St. James’ Park.

The crowd favorite made himself even more popular with Newcastle fans by choosing the cherished pitch for his personal big moment.

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The Brazilian, partner Thays Gondim and their two children waited at the halfway line – overlooking a goal covered in pink and blue balloons.

Joelinton then threw a ball in the air – signaling the launch of a mass of blue flares and streamers.

His family reacted with wild excitement, jumping around and hugging.

Then they spoke to the camera about their new joy of boyhood.

It’s also an exciting time for Joelinton in his more normal role on the pitch.

His form declined after manager Eddie Howe brought him back from a flashy role last season.

And the 26-year-old has maintained that momentum this season for a Saudi-backed Newcastle side who are fourth in the Premier League.

Brazil are now watching Joelinton more closely, with a first international call-up likely.

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First, however, the South Americans need to find a successor to Tite.

The coach resigned after six years in charge after Brazil were eliminated by Croatia in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti and ex-Spain and Barcelona manager Luis Enrique are among the big names mentioned as contenders.

So it’s a momentous year all round for Joelinton – he’s expecting his third child and hoping for Champions League football and his first international cap.

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