‘Bring his confidence back’: Eddie Howe suggests Newcastle United star isn’t in ‘top form’

Eddie Howe has addressed Newcastle United’s midfield concerns after claims it isn’t working in its current form.

Since the international break, voices have speculated whether Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali haven’t quite gelled yet, or may be too attacking. Others have said Guimaraes is performing at his best.

And now the Newcastle manager has had his say on the speculation, suggesting the Brazilian’s confidence levels haven’t been high across the start of the season. However, Howe is hopeful a successful stint with his national team can give the footballer the ‘spark’ he needs.

“It will hopefully inspire him and bring his confidence levels back to the very best they can be,” said Howe. “Every player I’ve ever met is a confidence player, they need to feel good to play well. Hopefully that will be the thing that sparks Bruno into life for us.

“He’s done some really good things at the start of the season and made some valuable contributions. We hope that this is the thing that sees Bruno return to his very top form.”

After losing to Manchester City, Guimaraes scathingly responded to United fans on Twitter after they questioned whether it was time to start blaming individual players.

“Is this serious?” the Brazilian questioned. “We are in Champions League football we lost against maybe one of the best teams in the world and we have a big win and lost one game!

“Support in the best moment is easy! Short stupid memories you all have look what we have done for the team this 1 year and half.”

But Newcastle United’s game against Brentford might provide an opportunity to mix things up a bit. Sandro Tonali picked up a small injury on international duty and, despite the scan saying it’s nothing too serious, could sit tomorrow out.

But Howe still backs the trio, albeit while hinting things could change.

“They’ve all got different qualities. That’s not the only midfield three I can pick,” said Howe. “You’re looking for a balance of qualities and for it to work in the team structureIt can, as proved against Aston Villa.

“Obviously it hasn’t been as successful in the last three games so we’re constantly looking at how we can improve.”