‘But I think…’ - Bruno Guimaraes makes fitness claim after Newcastle United hold on

Bruno Guimaraes has admitted he is still regaining his fitness following Newcastle United’s gritty 1-0 win over Southampton.

The Magpies played 62 minutes with 10 men after Fabian Schar saw red for “headbutting” Ben Brereton Diaz. That incident riled home supporters - who felt as though Brereton Diaz feigned injury to get the Toon ace sent off.

Guimaraes was ever-present in the second half, closing down waves of Southampton attacks and putting his body on the line. The midfielder - who wore the armband yesterday - collapsed to the ground in stoppage time once he drew a foul to help see the game out.

Newcastle ultimately held on to get the 2024-25 campaign off to a win and much-needed three points. While Guimaraes praised the fans for rallying behind the team, he confessed to needing more match sharpness following his Copa America exploits.

“I’m not at my best level physically,” he said. “I came back after the guys so I’m still needing to build my level physically but I think today was a big test for me.

“After the red card, everyone gave as much as possible. I’m very proud. There are many ways to win a game and I think, today, we won in all the ways. We have to keep it going.

“It was unbelievable. To deliver that first impression for the fans, who once again made the difference for us. When we put the shirt on, we play for them. For these three points, they had maximum contribution. I’m going to sleep tonight very, very happy.”