Bruno Guimaraes more confident than Eddie Howe about Newcastle United's season
Newcastle United sit five points off a European spot following the 3-1 win over Brighton.
Eddie Howe has simmered talk of a late push for European football at Newcastle United.
A win over Brighton on Saturday ended a five-game losing run and dispelled fears about being dragged into a relegation scrap. Newcastle sit 13th - five points off a Conference League spot.
European football was the aim ahead of the campaign despite the hectic summer window. The Magpies were in the mix until the season nosedived after the Champions League exit.
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Eddie Howe plays down Europe talk
Such is the volatile nature of football that one win has reignited qualification talk. With Nottingham Forest, West Ham United and Fulham still to play, some fans are starting to believe again.
Howe - in his usual political manner - stayed coy when The Gazette asked whether Europe is back on the cards. He said: “I've not seen the league table, so you'll understand today was all about the win and the win was much needed. We want to try and win the last three games and we'll see where it takes us.”
Bruno Guimaraes rallies Newcastle United
However, his captain, Bruno Guimaraes, was more bullish on Newcastle’s chances. The Brazilian believes the Magpies can win the next three fixtures and secure a late push.
"It felt very good,” Guimaraes said. “In the changing room before the game we knew today was important for us, chasing European football for next season. The points are crucial, we keep dreaming and believing. It was a tough game, Brighton are a good team.
“Today for everything we have done we deserve the win. They had a lot of chances. In the first half, we were better but in the second half they were better. I am glad we could keep three points. We are looking up not down. We can still play European football next season, we must win the next three games."
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