And the Brazil international, who was making his 200th Premier League appearance, had a feeling he would score at Turf Moor.

He did just that inside the opening two minutes of the match, diverting Anthony Gordon's left-wing cross beyond former teammate Martin Dúbravka, and he was a key performer as the Magpies secured a 3-1 win.

It was Joelinton's first Premier League start since the draw with Tottenham at the beginning of December. Here are some of his post-match thoughts:

On three hard-earned points...

"We knew it would be a difficult game. We started really well, scored early; we could have an easier game, we could have controlled more the first half after the second goal - I think we lost control a little bit. But we showed a great character to defend our goal, to manage the game, and to score at the end of the game was a great feeling."

On his early opener on his 200th Premier League appearance...

"I was really confident today that I'd score. Before the game, I was thinking about it and then I wanted to be in the box. When I saw Ant (Gordon) to one-v-one, I just went into the box and hoped the ball comes to me! It was a great cross and I was happy to finish in that way."

On winning the ball high up the pitch for Yoane Wissa's goal...

"With high energy, we are very difficult to beat. We are a great team when we play in that way, and the reaction press is very important for us. I was happy to react when it happened fast and we scored the second goal.

"Today was about the team. Everyone fought, everyone ran with the intensity to win the game."

On Bruno Guimarães' late clincher...

"(The relief was) massive. I was tired at the end, so for him to score that goal was so good for us, to take the pressure off at the end of the game.

"It was such a great feeling to score the goal and get the three points, because that's the most important thing - to get the three points and give to the fans that good end to the year."

On coming through his first league start in almost a month...

"I feel good. Like I said, I felt confident today. I felt really motivated to perform, to help the guys out. It's so difficult when you are out and you can't help the team.

"Today it was just great to help on my 200th Premier League game. There were so many things in my head before the game, but I'm really glad that I helped and we got the three points."