Danny Murphy claims one thing is stopping Bruno Guimaraes from being one of the world’s best

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Danny Murphy claims Bruno Guimaraes’ athleticism is stopping the Newcastle United star from becoming one of the world’s best midfielders.

Bruno Guimaraes has been ever-present for the Magpies this term, during a period where Eddie Howe’s squad has been decimated by injuries.

The Brazilian has missed just one Premier League game all season, which was down to a suspension after picking up too many yellow cards.

During his short spell in England, Guimaraes has undoubtedly been one of the standout midfielders in the league.

But Danny Murphy feels his athleticism is holding him back from becoming one of the best midfielders in world football.

Murphy on the one problem with Guimaraes’ game

Speaking on talkSPORT, Murphy was asked if Guimaraes’ athleticism is an issue for Newcastle at the moment.

“Yes, absolutely,” the pundit said. “That’s what will stop him being one of the best because everything else in his game is superb.

“Great passer, technically gifted. But he’s not a great athlete.

“I feel for him because I was the same really. I had to be on the top of my game to look good and when I was below my best physically, I looked a bit lethargic and sloppy at times.

“He needs real athletes around him to shine. Normally they’ve got it with Joelinton, Willock, Longstaff, they surround him with amazing legs and you see the best of him.

“But to be fair to Bruno, his availability in terms of always being available to play, he always turns up. His athleticism is only a problem when he doesn’t have those around him to help him.

“He’s still a crucial player for them but if you’re talking about the best midfielders in the world, that’s what will stop him being classed as one of them.”

We’d have to disagree with Murphy here as we’ve seen many top midfielders over the years without outstanding physical attributes.

The likes of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Xavi and Andrea Pirlo are all regarded among the best midfielders over the past decade and none boasted amazing athleticism during their prime years.

While Guimaraes has got some way to go to be considered in that kind of company, he’s been consistently brilliant for Newcastle over the past couple of years.