Eddie Howe is hopeful Bruno Guimaraes’ injury is not a serious one.
What’s the latest Newcastle United news?
The Brazilian came off during the second half of the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester United on Sunday, his first appearance since the semi-final win over Southampton following a three-match suspension.
Guimaraes was down on his haunches during the first-half but was fine to carry on until the closing stages, when his blocking of a Bruno Fernandes shot appeared to cause damage to his ankle.
Yet to win without the 25-year-old this season, the prospect of being without him for Saturday’s trip to Manchester City is a real concern. Attentions, of course, have now turned back to trying to reclaim Newcastle’s place in the top four and there can be little more margin for error after a slow run of results of late.
What has Howe said about Guimaraes?
Speaking after the game at Wembley, (via the Shields Gazette), Howe said: “Bruno twisted his ankle. I think he did similar, I can’t remember the game, but not too long ago in a match. He was in a bit of pain. We don’t think it’s serious at the moment, but let’s wait and see.”
How well did Guimaraes play against Manchester United?
As many would have expected, Guimaraes was probably Newcastle’s standout player.
According to WhoScored data, the Brazil international made the highest number of tackles (3), had the highest passing accuracy percentage of any starter (90%) and ranked within the top for dribbles (3). Indeed, a late pass into Kieran Trippier (who, albeit, was slightly offside) was perhaps the one true moment of attacking quality Newcastle were able to muster.
Simply put, the longer Bruno Guimaraes plays for Newcastle, the more chance they will have of getting to more finals.
