Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has offered a cautiously optimistic update on the fitness of key midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, ahead of the Magpies' crucial Premier League encounter with Aston Villa this Sunday.
Guimaraes Injury Scare After Champions League Win
The Brazilian international was forced to leave the pitch during Newcastle's impressive 3-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League midweek, after sustaining an ankle problem. Guimaraes was seen limping off, with young talent Lewis Miley stepping in as his replacement.
Speaking to the press, Howe revealed that the full extent of the injury remains unclear, but shared positive initial signs. "With Bruno we hope it's not serious. The extent of the injury is still unknown, but he was reasonably positive after the game," the manager stated.
Howe's Calculated Approach to Player Fitness
Howe emphasised that the club will take a measured approach in deciding whether Guimaraes can feature against Villa, who currently sit third in the table, ten points ahead of Newcastle. "We'll always try and make the right decisions, as we do with every player, depending on need and circumstances, to protect them long-term but also to help the team if they need to play," he explained.
He described Guimaraes as an "inspirational figure" and a "pivotal player", highlighting his match-winning abilities over the years. "He's the guy that will never rule anything out, so we're going to give him every chance for this weekend. Let's wait and see," Howe added, indicating that a final decision will be made closer to the match.
Newcastle's Struggles Without Their Star Midfielder
Howe acknowledged the significant impact of Guimaraes' absence, noting that Newcastle have faced difficulties in matches where he has not been involved. "In terms of working out how to play without him, he is just a very good player, a very talented footballer, a very creative footballer. Regardless of where he plays, he has the ability to change games," the manager admitted.
He stressed the need for alternative strategies should the midfielder be unavailable. "Of course if we're without him in any game, you have to come up with a solution, you have to come up with an alternative way of either selecting your team or a way of playing. We'll try and figure out all avenues if he isn't available, but we hope he can make it," Howe concluded.
Positive News on Dan Burn's Return
In more encouraging news for Newcastle fans, Howe also provided an update on defender Dan Burn, who has returned to full training. Burn has been sidelined since December after a heavy collision with Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele during the Wear-Tyne derby.
"I think with Dan, as you saw around the Champions League game, he is out with the players. Today, possibly the first day where he's training fully with the group, taking contact and that will be the key thing for him. But he's desperate to get back involved, so that's a great sign," Howe said, indicating Burn's eagerness to rejoin the squad.
