'The truth' - Nobby Solano names Newcastle United star who can join him in club’s Hall of Fame

Nobby Solano has backed Bruno Guimaraes to join him in Newcastle United’s Hall of Fame.

Toon supporters enjoyed the Peruvian over two spells on Tyneside in the late 90s and early 00s. Renowned for his playmaking ability on the right, Solano made 314 appearances for the Magpies over nine seasons.

The 49-year-old - inducted alongside former midfielder Mick Martin - represented Newcastle in the Champions League under Sir Bobby Robson and was part of the team that lost the 1999 FA Cup final. Fast forward to the present day and Guimaraes is carrying the mantle of United’s midfield maestro.

A brace against Nottingham Forest earned Newcastle a 3-2 victory and got their quest for European football back on track. Speaking to Infobae, ex-Toon talisman Solano has named the Brazilian as a potential future Hall of Famer.

“It’s an honour, it’s a privilege (to be in the Hall of Fame),” he said. “The truth is that, here in England, they highly value the footballer for all the service provided over time. I didn’t expect it. I really take it with great humility, with courage. One feels proud and valued when receiving these kinds of awards.

“He (Guimaraes) is a very humble boy who has won over the fans in two years. He is the idol, and they love him very much here. These fans like the good player, the one with good footing. The truth is that he is a great footballer and I think that he will surely continue here for a long time and if he achieves it at some point, he will be recognised like me.

“He is on an important podium. All football goes through him. Every time Newcastle plays at home, I have the opportunity to watch him, and he is the player who carries great responsibility.

“I think he is on the path. He raises the fans every time he makes a play. He has that passion as a Brazilian and that is very loved. Hopefully, he can win something at the club.”