Bruno Guimaraes is a linchpin for Newcastle United, but when he's not on the pitch, the team seems to struggle. The Brazilian midfielder has become synonymous with his side's victories in recent times, with Newcastle rarely winning without him.
Guimaraes made his Premier League debut nearly four years ago, and since then, Newcastle have not won any of the nine league games he has missed. The fact that they've claimed just five wins out of 27 points available highlights how much Guimaraes is relied upon by the team.
In Sunday's defeat to Aston Villa, Newcastle were unable to replicate their usual form without Guimaraes. Despite having chances to strike, the hosts lacked the guile and creativity needed to unlock the visitors' defense. The absence of Guimaraes was palpable, with his forward-thinking and passing ability missing from the team.
"We missed Bruno's forward thinking," said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe after the game. "He always wants to pass forward and is always looking for a creative pass. We just couldn't replicate that without him."
Guimaraes has been instrumental in turning games around, scoring crucial goals when his side was struggling. His never-say-die spirit and attitude also inspire his teammates.
However, with Guimaraes currently out injured, Newcastle are facing a tough test in finding an alternative solution to his absence. The team's lack of depth at midfield has been exposed, and it remains to be seen how they'll overcome this without their talismanic midfielder.
Guimaraes is eager to return to the pitch as soon as possible, with his side facing a huge Champions League game against Paris St-Germain on Wednesday night.
Guimaraes made his Premier League debut nearly four years ago, and since then, Newcastle have not won any of the nine league games he has missed. The fact that they've claimed just five wins out of 27 points available highlights how much Guimaraes is relied upon by the team.
In Sunday's defeat to Aston Villa, Newcastle were unable to replicate their usual form without Guimaraes. Despite having chances to strike, the hosts lacked the guile and creativity needed to unlock the visitors' defense. The absence of Guimaraes was palpable, with his forward-thinking and passing ability missing from the team.
"We missed Bruno's forward thinking," said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe after the game. "He always wants to pass forward and is always looking for a creative pass. We just couldn't replicate that without him."
Guimaraes has been instrumental in turning games around, scoring crucial goals when his side was struggling. His never-say-die spirit and attitude also inspire his teammates.
However, with Guimaraes currently out injured, Newcastle are facing a tough test in finding an alternative solution to his absence. The team's lack of depth at midfield has been exposed, and it remains to be seen how they'll overcome this without their talismanic midfielder.
Guimaraes is eager to return to the pitch as soon as possible, with his side facing a huge Champions League game against Paris St-Germain on Wednesday night.