- Newcastle United manager gives update on Bruno Guimaraes fitness
- Brazil international sends message to fans on social media
- Magpies captain returned against Bournemouth over the weekend
Newcastle United didn’t have much to celebrate at the weekend when they were beaten at home by Bournemouth, but the return of their captain is one positive from the weekend.
The Brazilian had been out since February after he picked up a hamstring injury in an away match against Tottenham. There was hope he would return for their game against Barcelona, but that wasn’t to be.
Following the game against the Cherries, the 28-year-old took to social media to thank the fans for their continued support, though he expressed his disappointment with the form the Magpies are going through, and his manager confirms he will be fully fit soon.
Guimaraes wrote: “So many emotions right now! I’m happy to be back after almost 10 weeks. I want to thank everyone who was part of my recovery, without exception. I went through one of the most difficult moments of my career, but by the grace of God, I’m back and ready to go again.
“I’m sad about the moment we are currently going through at the club. I think that, for the first time in almost five years that we’ve been together, this has been the toughest period. The only way to get through a moment like this is to keep quiet and work even harder.
“I want to thank everyone for the messages of support during these 10 weeks. Without a doubt, your encouragement was essential in giving me the strength to recover as quickly as possible.”
Eddie Howe on Bruno Guimaraes injury
Reported by The Shield Gazette, the English manager claimed Guimaraes would ‘be better’ as they travel to face current Premier League leaders, Arsenal, this weekend.
The Black and Whites have faced a severe injury crisis over recent months, especially in the middle of the park, with Joelinton and Lewis Miley also being ruled out for several weeks.
The captain made his return to the pitch against Bournemouth as a second-half substitute after being sidelined for just over two months.
While he returned, there were more injury concerns, as Tino Livramento was subbed off in the second half with an injury, leaving Howe once again without key players as they head into the final stages of the season.
There has yet to be an update on the full back’s injury issues, but he’s expected to miss the game at the Emirates.
The match against Arsenal is another tough test for the Magpies, whose confidence seems to be shot, despite big wins over Manchester United and Chelsea just over a month ago.
The Gunners are also struggling at the moment, and if Howe’s side can take advantage of that, Manchester City will further their title credentials.
Newcastle need their captain back
The club have certainly missed Guimaraes while he’s been out, from his performances on the pitch, to the figure he can offer to inspire his teammates and the supporters.
The playmaker had one of his best seasons on Tyneside, but they need him now more than ever to bring that belief back to the club, if that is at all possible.
Many players have been questioned by the Toon Army over recent weeks for their commitment to the club as Howe tried to hoist the side from its worrying predicament.
His message to the fans on social media shows the Brazilian’s character, as a player who stands with the fans, and they hope he will start this weekend, so he can help the club return to normal progress after this setback.
In other news, Newcastle United ‘insider’ provides update on Eddie Howe ‘crisis talks’.
