Newcastle United just about got over the line against Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.
While it wasn’t pretty, Eddie Howe’s side rallied after a controversial red card shown to Fabian Schar in the opening stages following an altercation with Ben Brereton Diaz.
Joelinton’s strike on the stroke of half-time at St James’ Park proved the difference as Newcastle started the new Premier League season with a victory, thanks in no small part to some resolute defending.
The Saints had 77.7% of possession on Tyneside, as well as five shots on target compared to Newcastle’s one.
Had Howe’s side wilted after the early blow to Schar, the season would have got off to a nightmarish start after an already difficult summer transfer window.
Still, they managed to dig deep and Howe was particularly effusive in his praise of Bruno Guimaraes.
Eddie Howe marvels at “immense” Bruno Guimaraes as Newcastle beat Southampton
Handed the captaincy for the game, Guimaraes put in a typically all-action performance.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Howe said of the midfielder: “Defensively he covered every blade of grass. He was immense today.”
How did Bruno Guimaraes play against Southampton?
The statistics from the game certainly back up Howe’s comments. Guimaraes was absolutely everywhere from his central midfield role.
As per WhoScored data, Guimaraes made a team-high six tackles, while also ranking in Newcastle’s top six players for interceptions (1), clearances (2) and blocked shots (2).
The Brazilian’s quality on the ball needs little more explaining after the continued excellence he’s displayed since joining from Lyon but that defensive work rate is equally as important a trait for Newcastle.
Handed more of a leadership role this season, the importance of that ethic cannot be overstated, especially in games where things aren’t going particularly well.
Guimaraes is so often the beating heart of this Newcastle team, both on the ball and off it too.
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