‘I want’ - Bruno Guimaraes makes Newcastle United demand after rejecting Man City interest

Bruno Guimaraes is set on becoming “a leader” at Newcastle United after captaining the team for the first time.

Eddie Howe handed the Brazilian the armband ahead of the 2-0 defeat to Japanese outfit Yokohama F. Marinos. Guimaraes previously skippered United in the end-of-season clash against Tottenham Hotspur in Australia but was given the nod from the start at the weekend.

Many fans predicted that could be a sign of the future, with Kieran Trippier reportedly heading for the St James’ Park exit. The 26-year-old becoming captain would be a drastic change from speculation linking him to Manchester City just weeks ago.

Writing for the club website, Guimaraes declared his “love” for Newcastle - vowing to help the club become successful. He also hailed Toon fans for their incredible support across the world.

“I still need to improve physically and technically but I'd missed the feeling of playing and tonight it was very special to captain the club I love so much,” Guimaraes said. “I captained the team against Tottenham in Australia too, but this game was my first start as a captain. 

“Everyone knows what the club means to me, so I will keep this match forever in my mind. I want to be a leader in the group and give even more to the club than before because they've given me so much. I just want the club to be as big as possible and to help however I can.

“The support out here was incredible and I didn’t realise we had so many fans in Japan. But our fans are unbelievable - Japan, Australia, Germany, Paris; everywhere we play, they are with us and I want so much to win something for the fans. They deserve it.”