Bruno Guimaraes led Newcastle United out for the first time since February as the side fell to a 1-0 defeat at Arsenal.
Eddie Howe hailed Bruno Guimaraes’ ‘outstanding’ return to the Newcastle United starting line-up at Arsenal on Saturday evening.
Eberechi Eze’s early goal secured a big three points for Arsenal as they returned to the top of the Premier League table while Manchester City were in FA Cup action.
But the defeat was Newcastle’s ninth in 12 Premier League matches, the majority of which have been in the absence of Guimaraes due to injury.
The Brazilian missed over two months of action following a hamstring injury picked up in a 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur back in February. And on his return to North London, this time on the red side, Guimaraes was back in the starting line-up but unable to lead the side to victory.
The Gazette has launched a WhatsApp NUFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone.Simply click this linkto join our NUFC WhatsApp channel.
Eddie Howe on Bruno Guimaraes return and substitution
The midfielder was withdrawn in the closing stages of the match after slipping awkwardly and looking uncomfortable in the aftermath.
Afterwards, head coach Eddie Howe was keen to play down any injury fears.
“I think he's okay,” Howe told The Gazette. “I don't know. I've not spoke to him directly. He's walking a bit gingerly, but I think that's expected because he's missed so much football and today was a big effort for him. But I thought he was outstanding.
“Firstly, in his attitude to play the game, really, with minimal training time. But just the way he plays, the way he's brave, he wants the ball. He changed the dynamic of the team totally and showed his qualities through.”
Bruno Guimaraes reacts to injury absence
Reflecting after the match, Guimaraes provided some insight into his injury frustrations.
“I was very tired in the second half,” the Newcastle captain explained.
"It [the hamstring injury in February] was my worst injury. I was feeling like someone in my family [had passed away].
"It was a sad moment for me. A tough moment. A very important moment of the season. It was very weird for me to miss so many games.
"Now I am back and have to find my best level."
Newcastle have four games left to play but are in real danger of having their season peter out, or worse, be dragged lower in the table as the sides below them close the gap.
Continue Reading