Eddie Howe reveals Bruno Guimaraes ‘concern’ at Newcastle United

Eddie Howe could make a late call over whether or not to start Bruno Guimaraes against Tottenham Hotspur.

The £35million January signing from Lyon has been on international duty with Brazil - where he scored his first goal in a 4-0 win over Bolivia on Wednesday.

Guimaraes is back on Tyneside but will have a maximin of two training sessions, first Friday and then Saturday before travelling to London.

Factoring in the travel time from South America and time difference, Howe admits that could impact his decision to start Guimaraes at Spurs.

“He’s back,” Howe confirmed, when asked about Guimaraes’ whereabouts. “I haven’t seen him yet.

“This will be the first day I’ve seen him as with all the international players. Certainly, we’ll take it on an individual basis.

“I think the travelling time is probably the biggest concern. I know what I feel like after a long flight.

“I think we have to talk with the players, see how they feel and make a decision based on that.”

Chris Wood has been away with New Zealand, where he became his country’s all-time record goalscorer, but is still likely to lead the line.

With Callum Wilson injured and Dwight Gayle clearly out of favour, the 30-year-old has started every game since his £20m move from Burnley.

“To become New Zealand’s record goalscorer is a great achievement,” Howe said. “So pleased for him.

“Knowing him as I do, he’s a very humble, down to earth guy, a brilliant professional and team player. He deserves that recognition.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him. I haven’t seen him yet but obviously we’ve communicated.”

Miguel Almiron, who scored in Paraguay’s 3-1 win against Ecuador last Thursday, has started United’s last two games in defeats Chelsea and Everton.

Howe added: “Also pleased for Bruno (Guimaraes) to get his first goal for Brazil and for Miggy (Almiron) to score.

“Hopefully, for those guys that have gone away, it’s been a really good time for them.”