Bruno Guimaraes drops big Newcastle United hint with seven-word message
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Bruno Guimaraes looks set to be involved in Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup clash against Bournemouth this evening (kick-off 7:45pm).
The 25-year-old returned from the World Cup last week after Brazil suffered a shock penalty shootout exit to Croatia at the quarter-final stage.
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Hide AdWhile Kieran Trippier and Nick Pope - back from England duty - played in Saturday’s 2-1 friendly win against Rayo Vallecano, Guimaraes was among the international players left out.
Eddie Howe has kept people second-guessing over the likes of Guimaraes’ availability but it appears the midfielder has confirmed his inclusion in tonight’s matchday squad.
Posting on Twitter, Guimaraes tweeted: “Happy to be back with my team” with a graphic previewing the last 16 encounter against the Cherries.
Asked about Guimaraes yesterday, Howe said: “He’s fine physically. He’s obviously disappointed to not reach the latter stages of the World Cup with his country, their dream was to win the tournament but he’s focused now on Newcastle and that’s very important for all the players, to put all that behind them and take what positives they can.”
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Hide AdAfter coming under criticism from sections of the Brazil media, Howe believes a return to St James’ Park will boost Guimaraes’ spirits after the World Cup exit left him in tears.
“I would say every player needs some Newcastle love, to feel the positive force of the crowd behind them,” Howe added. “Bruno is no different and if he can feel that positivity and love for him, I would encourage that. To have that positivity behind you, it makes a huge difference.
“All he can do is continue his form from earlier in the season. For me, he has been outstanding for us, he had a small injury at the start of the season, but once he got his fitness back he has been incredible.
“I hope we get to see the same Bruno come back because he is a massive presence in our team.”