Eddie Howe drops Bruno Guimaraes selection hint as Newcastle United face Southampton, Chelsea and Everton

Bruno Guimaraes’ wait for his first Newcastle United start is likely to continue against Brighton and Hove Albion today.

However, his wait is set to end sooner rather than later with Eddie Howe’s side preparing for three away games in seven days.

Since arriving from Lyon for £35million in January, the Brazilian has had to settle for substitute appearances against Everton, Aston Villa, West Ham and Brentford.

Bruno’s first start is just around the corner

While that trend is expected to continue when Brighton visit St James’ Park, it’s also set to be broken with games at Southampton, Chelsea and Everton just around the corner.

“I think Bruno understands,” Howe said when asked about Bruno’s situation. “He’s come into a team that is doing very well.

“Because of our season, and the way it’s unfolded, I have been reluctant to make too many changes when we’re in a good moment.

“But I get the question, he’s not going to want to sit and watch for a long period of time. He is going to want to play.

“The amount of games we’ve got coming up in this short period, he will get his opportunity. It’s then up to him to play so well that I don’t want to take him out.”

A playing style switch

Interestingly, Howe then spoke about changing Newcastle’s style of play in the future.

And United’s head coach believes Guimaraes will be integral to that switch.

Howe said: “We have highlighted that, longer term, we want to have more of the ball and play in a slightly different style than we are currently.

“That will take time to evolve into. Bruno, I see, being a huge part of that. I’m looking forward to seeing more of him.

“ He does play in a slightly different way, a more controlling way. He is a very creative passer and played two or three balls last week that were excellent.

“I have been really pleased with the brief time we’ve seen him on the pitch.”