Newcastle United's influential midfielder Bruno Guimaraes remains in contention for Sunday's Premier League encounter against Aston Villa, despite suffering an ankle injury during midweek Champions League action.
Injury Concerns After Champions League Victory
The Brazilian international sustained the knock during the first half of Newcastle's impressive 3-0 triumph over PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday evening. Concerns escalated when photographs emerged showing Guimaraes' right ankle appearing significantly swollen during post-match celebrations in the dressing room, casting doubt over his availability for the weekend fixture.
Howe's Cautious Optimism
Addressing media during his Friday press conference, manager Eddie Howe revealed that the club hasn't ruled out their star player for the Villa match. "With Bruno we hope it is not serious, the extent of the injury is still unknown," Howe stated. "But he was reasonably positive after the game. Speaking to him again, he is the guy that will never rule anything out. We are going to give him every chance for this weekend, so let's wait and see."
The Newcastle boss emphasised the careful approach being taken with the midfielder, recognising his crucial importance to the team. "We will try and make the right decision with Bruno, he is a pivotal player. We will always try to make the right decision to protect the long-term. He is a match-winner and an inspiration, so we need him. We will make all the calculations and come to the right decision."
Newcastle's Concerning Record Without Bruno
Statistics reveal the magnitude of Guimaraes' importance to the Magpies' setup. Since his £40 million arrival from Lyon in 2022, Newcastle have failed to secure a single Premier League victory in the ten matches they've played without the Brazilian midfielder in their lineup.
The sole exception to this pattern came in January last year, when Newcastle managed a Carabao Cup semi-final first leg win against Arsenal without Guimaraes starting. This stark record underscores why his potential absence represents such a significant concern for Howe's side.
Planning for All Possibilities
When questioned about this worrying statistic, Howe responded: "I wondered how long it would be before that one came up. In terms of working out how to play without him, I think he is just a very, very good player. A very, very talented footballer. A very creative footballer."
The manager acknowledged the need for contingency planning, adding: "Regardless of where he plays, he has the ability to change games. Of course, if we're without him in any game, you have to come up with a solution. You have to come up with an alternative way of either selecting your team or a way of playing. We're trying to figure out all avenues if he isn't available but we hope he can make it."
As Sunday's match approaches, Newcastle fans will anxiously await further updates on Guimaraes' fitness. The midfielder's presence could prove decisive in what promises to be a crucial Premier League encounter at St James' Park, with both teams seeking valuable points in their respective campaigns.
