‘Awful’ - Newcastle United legend slams Bruno Guimaraes as brutal Liverpool stat revealed

John Anderson singled out Bruno Guimaraes for criticism following Newcastle United’s dismal defeat to Liverpool.

Eddie Howe’s men barely landed a glove on the Reds, failing to land a shot on target throughout the 90 minutes. Newcastle’s shocking Premier League winless run at Anfield extended to 30 games - with zero victories since a 2-0 triumph in April 1994.

Many viewed the game as a tune-up for next month’s Carabao Cup final between the two sides. However, if Wednesday was the starter, Toon fans will be fearing the main course as a ruthless Liverpool side put Newcastle to the sword.

Former Toon defender Anderson was not impressed with Guimaraes, who played 88 minutes until being withdrawn. An alarming stat is how the Brazilian reclaimed possession just once.

For context, Sandro Tonali (nine) and Dominik Szoboszlai (eight) added provided greater muscle in midfield. Anderson told BBC Radio Newcastle: "I think he has been awful lately. There was times where he looked like he couldn't run. 

“He was chasing shadows at times. (Ibrahima) Konate strolled past him as if he wasn't there. He looked like he had no legs at all. I think he has been poor for a while. Some players are poor and get absolutely battered for it and some players are poor and no one mentions it.

“It always felt like Liverpool had another gear. They were just stroking it around. Everything we did was rushed and hurried whereas they seemed to be in total control of everything they did."