Jamie Redknapp raves about "top-class" 24-year-old Newcastle star

By Tom Avery

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has spoken in glowing terms about Newcastle United’s midfield marvel Bruno Guimaraes.

The Brazilian international has quickly established himself as a crowd favourite at St James’ Park since joining from Ligue 1 giants Lyon in the January transfer window.

After slowly being bedded in to English football by Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s number 39 is flourishing on Tyneside.

The midfield technician has added quality and grit to Newcastle’s side and at the age of 24, Guimaraes is going to be a driving force in PIFs ambitious project.

Guimaraes has started five of the last six Premier League games and the former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder, Redknapp is a big fan.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp said: “Guimaraes is top-class. He’s got great skill and work ethic.

“The Geordies will love his appetite for the game in terms of how he drives them in midfield.

“He’s got a lovely touch and appreciation of the players around him.

“I’ve been so impressed by him and he’s tough as well. Some players take a while to acclimatise to the Premier League, but he hasn’t.

“The fact that Howe initially went with Willock and Shelvey, gave him five or six weeks of being on the bench and watching what the Premier League’s about.

“He’s adjusting so well now and he’s a player they can really look forward to in the future.”

Guimaraes scored Newcastle’s equaliser in this afternoon’s clash against Leicester after poking the ball home following a corner and scramble with Kasper Schmeichel.

Following a VAR check, Guimaraes’ first goal at St James’ Park was given.