Eddie Howe reveals what he didn’t expect from Bruno Guimaraes at Newcastle United

Eddie Howe has lauded Bruno Guimaraes following the midfielder’s display in Newcastle United’s 2-1 win at Southampton.

But the Magpies head coach admits he didn’t quite expect £35million January signing from Lyon to find the net.

The 24-year-old replaced the injured Joelinton in the starting XI to make his full debut at St Mary’s.

Howe’s side went 1-0 down after Stuart Armstrong’s header but went into half-time level as Chris Wood netted his first goal for the club.

Shortly into the second-half, Guimaraes produced a moment of magic as he amazingly backheeled his shot past Fraser Forster.

It’s a small sign of what’s to come from the Brazilian.

Eddie Howe on Bruno’s performance and goal

Howe said “I thought it was a welcome to the Premier League for Bruno. It was an end-to-end game. It was high in transitions and a very physical game.

“For us, that’s been one of our hallmarks. I thought we looked a little bit leggy at the start but we grew into the game physically.

“That will be a really, really good experience for Bruno. We made a tactical switch when we conceded and he showed his best qualities.

“The goal is probably something we didn’t expect from him but it shows his technical ability and the eye that he has.

“He’s going to be a huge player for us and I’m really pleased for him tonight.

Going off with cramp

“Instantly looking at him, I loved his way of playing, eye for a pass and composure but also he’s not frightened to do the other side of the game. You have to in this league. You can’t carry anybody.

“That will be slightly different for him. He came off, got a bit of cramp but I think that’s expected because he hasn’t played for a while.

The love from the Newcastle fans

“Any player will tell you, if you’re loved by your own supporters it’s the most important thing. You enter the pitch with a good frame of mind and confidence knowing you have the love of the people behind you.”