Newcastle United star hasn't travelled to Arsenal as training ground photo emerges
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes has expressed his disappointment at missing tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg clash away to Arsenal.
The Brazilian and defender Fabian Schar are suspended for the visit to the Emirates. Schar also missed Saturday’s 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur but this evening is the first time the Magpies have been without Guimaraes this season.
“I am little bit sad that I will not be able to make the game but I will support the team as a Geordie now and hopefully we can get a good score because the first leg is very important for the second one,” Guimaraes said at the weekend.
“The confidence is higher, we are in a good moment so I am hopeful we can go there and get a win.”
While Eddie Howe and his squad journeyed to London, Guimaraes stayed behind on Tyneside, despite some wondering if he would be in attendance to support his teammates.
The midfielder has uploaded a photo from the club’s training ground in the last few hours captioned “morning” with a sad face emoji.
The 27-year-old has been an integral part of the Newcastle side that has won six matches in a row. His switch into a slightly more advanced midfield role has seen him contribute goals and assists.
Howe admitted his absence is a “big blow”. Howe said: “One of Bruno’s biggest strengths is that he’s always there for you, his appearance record has been brilliant for us. Especially when you consider the physical exertion he commits to each game.
“He’s been exceptional in every way so to lose him, a pivotal figure for us, is a big miss but we have big players that can fill his shoes as well so whoever I choose in that position I think that we have quality coming in.”
With Sandro Tonali and Joelinton expected to retain their place in midfield, Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock or Lewis Miley will be the one to replace Guimaraes.
“Trying to find someone to play like Bruno is not easy,” said Howe. “No two players are alike and you have to look at who you bring in and try to make him play to the best of his own ability, his style really.
“I have no doubt there will be a slight change for us to be without Bruno but (whoever comes in) he can do what he does. But that does not mean it cannot be effective for the team whatever change we do make .
“We will have to try to look at that and find the right balance because the balance has been so good in the last few games. That is why we have executed what we have. To get the balance right with new players coming in is something we will have to look at closely.”