Thomas Frank singles out ‘very good signing’ in classy Newcastle United verdict

Brentford boss Thomas Frank is impressed by Newcastle United’s transformation under Eddie Howe - and labelled Bruno Guimaraes as a “very good signing”.

Frank’s men were hammered by Howe’s Magpies following a Guimaraes brace, goals from Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron, plus an own goal by Ethan Pinnock.

Coincidentally, Howe’s first game as United head coach was against the Bees at St James’ Park last year, which ended in a 3-3 draw.

At the time, Newcastle were deep in Premier League relegation trouble. Fast forward to now and the club is currently sitting 5th in the table after the opening nine games.

“Very impressive,” Frank said on Howe. “I thought when he was hired it was a good signing, a good choice.

“I think he made them gell and very difficult to beat throughout the last 11 months. That’s important.

“They are a very aggressive and front foot team and they have a lot of power and dynamic in the team. I like the way they play.”

One of the key players in Newcastle’s turnaround is Guimaraes, who arrived from Lyon in January for £35million.

Magpies fans have been blown away by the Brazilian and Frank witnessed first-hand the damage he can cause to the opposition.

“I think he was good,” Frank admitted. “Fair play. He was good and I think he’s a good player, a very good signing for Newcastle.

“The set piece goal is good but we need to avoid that. His second goal is well taken.”

With the help of Guimaraes, Newcastle inflicted a heaviest-ever Premier League defeat on Brentford.

“I can’t swear… it was just so painful to lose 5-1,” Frank added. “Last year, I thought we would never lose five games in a row. It happened. I also thought we’d never lose or concede five goals.

“I know those things happen in the Premier League, it’s the most difficult and relentless league in the world. It’s just because my belief in these boys are so big. That’s why I never thought it would happen.

“It’s about how we handle setbacks and bounce back. I’m convinced we’ll bounce back.”