The 27-year-old Brazilian admitted he was a “bit surprised” to be given the armband by boss Eddie Howe at the start of the season and as he initially settled into the role, he used to struggle to sleep because he was worrying how best to motivate his teammates.

He told FourFourTwo magazine: “I was thrilled with he opportunity to be captain – I could feel butterflies in my belly – although I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit surprised.

“I think I speak English really well but I’m not from England.

“It was a huge responsibility for me.

“Ahead of the first five games, it kept me awake at night for two hours, thinking about what I’d tell the boys the next day to motivate them.

“It wasn’t natural for me. I had to learn, and I’m still working on it.

“As captain, you have to think about your teammates first.

“But I’ve enjoyed the ride and it’s helped me to improve my English – I love talking!”

The midfielder admitted it “meant the world” to lift the EFL Cup as Newcastle captain in March.

He said: “It’s tough to find the best words to describe this dream I’ve been living.

“Given Newcastle’s history, tradition and passionate fanbase, 70 years without a domestic trophy was such a long time.

“I think the penny will fully drop when I retire.

“I’ve been walking on clouds, making the most of this honeymoon with the fans.

“I’ve felt like that since day one at Newcastle, but to become the first captain in 70 years to lift a [domestic] trophy meant the world to me.”