Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has disclosed that captain Bruno Guimaraes' injury, sustained during Wednesday's Champions League clash with PSV, is emerging as a significant concern for the club. The Brazilian central midfielder, a pivotal figure for the Magpies throughout this season, was forced to exit the pitch just before half-time at St James' Park, visibly struggling with an apparent ankle issue.
Howe's Post-Match Assessment
Speaking after the match, Howe provided a cautious update on Guimaraes' condition. 'He's a little bit sore and there's a little bit of swelling around his ankle,' the Newcastle boss stated. 'We hope it's not serious but it's difficult to know. It's a worry that he's had to come off.' This admission highlights the uncertainty surrounding the severity of the injury and its potential impact on the team's upcoming fixtures.
Match Context and Replacement
The injury occurred during a crucial European encounter, with Guimaraes initially going down hurt approximately five minutes before the interval. He signalled to the bench indicating he needed to be substituted but managed to continue playing until three minutes into stoppage time, when he could no longer persevere. Lewis Miley entered the fray as his replacement, and Newcastle proceeded to secure a commanding 3-0 victory. Goals from Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon, and Harvey Barnes sealed the win, keeping alive the Magpies' hopes of finishing in the top eight of the Champions League league phase. Achieving this now hinges on a positive result against European champions Paris Saint-Germain in their upcoming away fixture.
Guimaraes' Season Contributions
Bruno Guimaraes has been an indispensable asset for Newcastle this campaign, featuring in 33 appearances across all competitions. In what has often been a challenging season for the club, the 28-year-old has consistently delivered, netting eight goals and providing six assists. His potential absence could represent a substantial blow to Howe's midfield options and tactical plans.
Looking Ahead
The prospect of Guimaraes facing a spell on the sidelines looms large, with further medical assessments expected to determine the exact nature and duration of his ankle problem. As Newcastle prepare for their decisive Champions League encounter with PSG, the fitness of their captain remains a pressing issue that could influence both their European aspirations and domestic campaign momentum.
