Bruno Guimaraes update at Newcastle United as Eddie Howe opens up on decision for Tottenham Hotspur game

Guimaraes was due back at the club’s training ground today following his exploits for Brazil during the international break.

The 24-year-old, signed from Olympique Lyonnais in January, scored a stunning goal against Bolivia in midweek.

The game was played at altitude in La Paz, and Howe must ensure that he's not tired following the World Cup qualifier – and the long journey back to England – before making a decision on his starting XI for the fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Miguel Almiron and Chris Wood, both on target during the international break, have also had long journeys back.

“He’s back,” said head coach Howe. “I haven’t seen him yet. This will be the first day I’ve seen him as with all the international players.

"Certainly, we’ll take it on an individual basis. I think the travelling time is probably the biggest concern. I know what I feel like after a long flight. I think we have to talk with the players, see how they feel and make a decision based on that.”

Wood became New Zealand’s all-time leading scorer when he netted his 29th and 30th goals for his country in Monday’s 4-0 win over Fiji.

Howe said: "He deserves that recognition, and I’m really pleased he’s done that. Also pleased for Bruno to get his first goal for Brazil, and Miggy to score (for Paraguy). For those guys who’ve gone away, it's been a really good time for them.”

Howe expects to have Jonjo Shelvey – who has missed the last two games through illness – available for the Tottenham game.

And he must pick three midfield starters from Guimaraes, Shelvey, Joe Willock, Joelinton and Sean Longstaff

"It's a great position for me to be in,” said Howe. “That midfield area has been the key area for us, it’s been one of the strengths of the team without a doubt. I think we’ve had a really good mix in there of technical quality, physical attributes.

"Offensively, I think they’ve been very, very good. Nice problem for me to have. I’ve got to pick three out of those five if everyone’s fit, and we decide to play with a three.”

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