Newcastle United breezed past Leicester on Saturday, but things could’ve gone much differently.
The Magpies dispatched the Foxes 4-0 at St James’ Park thanks to goals from Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes and a brace from Jacob Murphy.
Saturday’s win gives Toon boss Eddie Howe some much-needed breathing space after speculation regarding his future arose following Newcastle’s 4-2 defeat at Brentford the week prior.
Newcastle were also without Nick Pope after he sustained knee ligament damage but was replaced by longstanding keeper Martin Dubravka who was barely troubled in the win. Pope’s injury puts Dubravka in the driving seat to feature in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Brentford.
While the result and clean sheet rounded out a perfect week which saw Newcastle move within four points of fifth – a moment of madness from Guimaraes could’ve sent it all crashing down.
Newcastle player Bruno Guimaraes acknowledges the Newcastle supporters after being substituted during the Premier League match between Newcastle Un...
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Ashley Williams believes Bruno Guimaraes could have been sent off vs Leicester
In the first half, Guimaraes and Foxes defender Jannick Vestegaard tussled in the penalty area, despite no contact being made by the centre-back the Brazilian wasn’t booked for simulation.
Shortly after, Guimaraes caught forward Stephy Mavididi with a nasty challenge which he was penalised for. To compile the misery, Guimaraes extended Newcastle’s lead two minutes into the second half with a close-range header, his first goal of the season.
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Howe decided to take the 26-year-old off in the 64th minute to ensure he wouldn’t be suspended.
Many would think that would be the end of the matter but former Everton defender Ashley Williams suggested otherwise.
Williams told BBC Match of the Day: “He was very lucky because for me he should have got two yellows. This is a dive, he’s gone down too early and I’m not sure why he doesn’t get booked for that – unless the referee is saying maybe it’s handball, which I’m not sure, but that’s a yellow card, which he didn’t pick up.
“Now, he does get a yellow card for this tackle a minute later, he’s gone over the top of the ball and then he’s off (if he was booked for simulation), he’s then sent off. He then pops up with a goal not so long after and I do think he’s a very lucky boy today.”
Sean Longstaff will miss Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup tie through suspension
Although Guimaraes may have gotten off lucky, one player who won’t be available to feature against Brentford will be Sean Longstaff.
The midfielder picked up yellow cards in the games against AFC Wimbledon and Chelsea meaning Longstaff will miss Wednesday’s important quarter-final.
Longstaff’s suspension opens up a slot in the midfield for someone who may not have had the opportunity prior. Lewis Miley has been working with Newcastle’s under-21s over the last few weeks as he recovers from a back injury, he could be someone who features on Wednesday as a result of Longstaff’s absence.
Joelinton picked up a Premier League ban on Saturday after reaching the yellow card limit but will still be available to face Brentford due to FA rules.
Joe Willock could also feature against Brentford, the 25-year-old was back in Newcastle’s squad on Saturday following a short period out with a hamstring strain.
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