Eddie Howe issues Newcastle United update on Bruno Guimaraes as midfielder waits for first start

That’s the view of Eddie Howe as the Newcastle United midfielder, signed from Olympique Lyonnais in January in a deal worth £35million plus add-ons, waits for his first start.

Guimaraes – who has made five substitute’s appearances for the club so far – is expected to get his first start in a run of three away games in eight days.

Howe, preparing for tomorrow night's game against Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium, has been encouraged by what he has seen so far from Guimaraes, who linked up with fit-again Allan Saint-Maximin after coming off the bench in last weekend’s 2-1 win over Brighton and Hove Albion at St James’s Park.

“In every cameo he has given so far, he has used the ball very well,” said United’s head coach. “That’s him. He’s shown what he will bring. A couple of lovely passes to Maxi. They’ve built a nice little relationship already.

"My heart was in my mouth mind you when he performed that little pirouette on the touchline, but that’s Bruno. He’s an out-and-out footballer.

"He also won the ball back for us at a couple of key moments from a defensive perspective. He can certainly do a bit of everything.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle, unbeaten in eight games, are second in the Premier League form table.

“That’s nice to hear, but when you’re in our position, and you have come from where we came from, you’ve got to remain very grounded and humble – and know there is still a lot of work to do.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor