'Class act': Keown says one Newcastle man's actually on a 'higher level' than everyone else, he could start today

By Shamanth Jayaram

Premier League legend Martin Keown has raved about Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes in his column on The Daily Mail.

The Magpies have completely turned their season around. When Eddie Howe took charge, they had won just once all season and all signs pointed towards relegation.

However, with just five games left in the season, Magpies fans are dreaming of a place in the top half of the league table now, which would be an extraordinary achievement if they get there.

One of the biggest boosts Newcastle received after Howe’s appointment was when they signed Guimaraes in January. He has impressed everyone, including Keown.

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Martin Keown: Bruno Guimaraes is on a higher level than everyone at Newcastle

The legendary former Arsenal defender wrote in his column: “On the right of the midfield three is another impressive January signing — Bruno Guimaraes.

“If he is a sign of what’s to follow in this bright new future for Newcastle, then very exciting times are ahead.

“Bruno had to wait until March 10 for his first start but he’s been a big hit and is a class act.

“He’s a total all-round midfielder — tenacious in the tackle, tidy and neat with the ball, but full of flair — and is on a higher level to what they’ve bought in recent years.”

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Everyone knew Guimaraes was a talented player but there were question marks over how he’d adapt to the physicality and speed of the Premier League.

Howe was really smart with him and gave him all the time he needed to adapt. He’s now a regular starter for Newcastle and we must say, he has been absolutely incredible.

He’s brilliant on the ball, disciplined without it and most importantly, he is scoring for fun.

Newcastle take on Liverpool today and Guimaraes is likely to start. If he has a good game, the Reds will have to work twice as hard to get the job done.