'They’ll love him': Eddie Howe makes prediction about Newcastle player who has only ever started once at SJP

By Shamanth Jayaram

Eddie Howe has predicted that Newcastle United fans will love Bruno Guimaraes following his performance in his first-ever start at St James’ Park last night.

The Magpies hosted Wolverhampton Wanderers at home with the hope of bouncing back after three consecutive defeats in the Premier League.

Thanks to Chris Wood’s penalty and Guimaraes’ fantastic performance in central midfield, Newcastle picked up all three points and climbed up to 14th in the Premier League table.

Howe was quizzed about the 24-year-old Brazilian after the game, and he raved about him.

• Alan Shearer issues nine-word verdict on Newcastle’s huge victory against Wolves tonight

Eddie Howe: Newcastle United fans will love Bruno Guimaraes

Speaking after the win over Wolves yesterday, Howe said, as per talkSPORT: “I think they’ll love him (Bruno Guimaraes) and they already love him to be honest.

“He’s got that technical flair, but also behind it, he’s got a real steel and resilience.

“He’s a winner. I see that every day in training, he’s got a great attitude so I think he is the complete package.

“He’s going to be a mainstay of the team for sure. He’s had his opportunity today, I thought he was excellent, he gave us a different dimension in there but I’m really excited about what he can do for the team.”

• Alan Shearer and Chris Waddle react to Chris Wood’s winner for Newcastle tonight

A look at the Brazilian’s stats vs Wolves

Facing a team like Wolves is never easy. Bruno Lage’s side are very difficult to break down and they are excellent in their offensive transition as well.

If Newcastle played last night like they did against Tottenham last week, they would’ve suffered another humiliating defeat. But, Bruno Guimaraes stepped up and absolutely dominated the midfield to help them pick up all three points.

In his 88 minutes on the pitch yesterday, the Brazilian completed every single one of his dribbles and completed 37 of his 41 attempted passes, thus maintaining a stunning 90 per cent passing accuracy.

He also recovered possession seven times, won 12 duels and five fouls. To add to all of that, he made four successful tackles, three clearances and one interception, rounding off a truly magnificent performance in his first-ever start at St James’ Park. (Squawka)

• Report: Tottenham and Newcastle now both want ‘fantastic’ £40m Premier League striker