Thierry Henry was left blown away by one Newcastle United star despite their disappointing 3-2 loss to Liverpool at St James’ Park.
After the promise of an electric crowd and a lively game, the two teams did not disappoint. Fans were treated to a five-goal thriller under the lights on Tyneside, but it was not the result they were hoping for.
Newcastle United were beaten 3-2 by Liverpool, despite playing with 10 men for the majority of the game.
Anthony Gordon was sent off for a horror challenge on Virgil van Dijk in the first half, just minutes after the Magpies went a goal down through Ryan Gravenberch. Former Newcastle transfer target Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool’s lead before Bruno Guimaraes and William Osula found the back of the net to level the clash.
Rio Ngumoha scored the winner deep into stoppage time, compounding the misery for the Magpies. While Newcastle have lost their opening home game of the season, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry heaped praise on one Toon star.
Bruno Guimaraes with his arms in the air during a Premier League game between Newcastle United and Liverpool.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Thierry Henry praises Bruno Guimaraes after Liverpool defeat
Newcastle captain Guimaraes dug deep in the second half and was rewarded with a goal against fellow Brazilian Alisson.
The 27-year-old was absolutely everywhere in the second half, trying to get his team back into it. His contributions did not go unnoticed by Henry, who was full of praise for the midfielder despite the loss.
“I have to talk about Guimaraes,” he said on Sky Sports’ live broadcast.
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“He was outstanding. The way he went forward and grabbed the game by the neck. The guy played almost alone.”
Before the game, Guimaraes was ready for a tough battle with Alexis Mac Allister, but the Argentine was not part of the Liverpool squad for the game.
Newcastle United can take positives from Liverpool defeat
There is no doubt that this defeat will sting for Eddie Howe, whose side battled very hard to score twice, only to suffer defeat in the 100th minute.
While the likes of Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier failed to perform, there are many positives which can be taken from the game.
Jacob Ramsey looked brilliant in his debut for the Magpies, and Gordon’s sending off means that he could have a place in Newcastle’s starting XI against Leeds United on Saturday.
Additionally, Lewis Hall came off the bench for his first Premier League appearance of the season. The left-back had been missing since March after picking up an ankle injury.
Like Ramsey, Hall will be in contention to start against Leeds on Saturday.