Newcastle United star [Joelinton](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/joelinton) is in the clear to return to first team action on Boxing Day after being left hospitalised by an awful challenge from Nathan Collins.
The Brazil star was elbowed by Collins before the Republic of Ireland defender followed up with a stamp on Joelinton's face as he lay defenceless on the ground at the Gallowgate End. The South American was patched up and sent back into battle but was then taken off at the interval.
Joelinton was sent to the RVI after the game and required stitches on the side of his face. Head coach [Eddie Howe](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/eddie-howe) offered an update and said: "Yeah, he's OK. He's a little bit battered and bruised. He's had a few stitches, I believe.
"There was a bit around the area of the ear which was quite delicate and he had a cut mouth I think."
Joelinton is banned anyway for the trip to Ipswich Town but Howe feels that it will give him the opportunity to rest up ahead of the home clash with Villa. Howe said: "Probably him not being available this weekend is probably a good thing for him because it allows him to rest those bruises and wounds and then hopefully be fully fixed."
The £40million man will lose his 100% appearance tag in the Premier League but one major boost is that Sean Longstaff is free to play again after missing the 3-1 victory over Brentford due to suspension.