This is when Newcastle United fans can expect Bruno Guimaraes to make his first start

Bruno Guimaraes’ frustrating wait for his first Newcastle United start is set to continue against Brentford today.

The £35million January signing from Ligue 1 side Lyon has made just three late cameo appearances in games versus Everton, Aston Villa and West Ham.

While head coach Eddie Howe is equally as keen to hand the Brazilian a place in his starting XI, the form of the midfield three Joelinton, Joe Willock and Jonjo Shelvey has made it increasingly difficult.

The 24-year-old is expected to be on the bench at the Brentford Community Stadium but Howe hinted the midfielder will get his opportunity in games to come, particularly with four fixtures in 10 days coming up.

‘Bruno will have lots of opportunities to cement his place’

Howe said: “The players not in the team are always, I wouldn’t say physically knocking on the door but mentally are and I think Bruno is in that place where of course he is keen to play and show what he can do and help the team.

“He’s trained very well and mentally he’s in a good place. I think he understands the team has been performing well. The chemistry in the midfield has been very good.

“He’s an intelligent player and he understands his position. He also knows we have a lot of games on the horizon. The fixture congestion will be packed as the season unfolds.

“He will have lots of opportunities to cement his place in the team.”

Bruno G’s arrival has had a positive knock-on effect

After Brentford, United host Brighton and Hove Albion at St James’ Park before facing Southampton, Chelsea, Everton and Crystal Palace in the space of 10 days.

Howe has already voiced his disappointment at the hectic schedule, however it will be a good chance to rotate his line-up and hand opportunities to players like Guimaraes.

The 44-year-old added: “One of the reasons why the midfield trio has performed so well is because Bruno is in there waiting for his opportunities and that is one of the key things to a successful team.

“You don’t just have eleven players, you need a squad of players fighting for place, which elevates the levels of the ones who are actually playing.

“I haven’t wanted to change the team too much because it’s the first time this season where we’ve had a really good rhythm, but Bruno will get his opportunity in the games coming up and it’s up to him to make sure he does well enough to stay in the team.”