Bruno Guimaraes is set to return for Newcastle United in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final, which Alan Shearer says is a ‘big plus’ following the Nick Pope disappointment.
Eddie Howe is almost certain to make at least two changes to his side for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United. Pope is going to be replaced by Loris Karius, as the England international is suspended following his red card against Liverpool.
But Newcastle also have a player returning from suspension, with Bruno now available after his ban. He has been missing since the cup semi final with Southampton, when he was sent off for a challenge on Samuel Edozie.
The Brazilian midfielder thought at the time that he was going to miss the final, but he was able to serve his three-match suspension in the Premier League instead.
That means he can play at Wembley, which Alan Shearer is delighted about.
Alan Shearer addresses goalkeeper situation and Bruno Guimaraes’ return
The Toon legend has spoke to BBC Newcastle ahead of the cup final, and commented on the Magpies’ recent suspensions.
“It’s not ideal for Newcastle, Nick Pope has not put a foot wrong since he arrived,” Shearer said.
“But what an opportunity for Karius to remind everyone he is a capable goalkeeper. A few days ago he couldn’t have dreamed of being on the bench never mind being in the team, what an unbelievable opportunity for him.
“It will be tough, but we wish him luck and hope he has the game of his life and walks away with a winner’s medal.
“Do I think Newcastle are good enough? Yes, I do. Bruno [Guimaraes] is back, which is a big plus.”
Bruno is Newcastle’s most important player at Wembley
While the loss of Pope is devastating, having Bruno back is more important. He is the one player who makes us tick, and we are a much worse team without him.
The 25-year-old has missed six games this season, with Newcastle failing to win any of them. There is a noticeable drop off in quality when he is not on the pitch, so it is fantastic to know that he is available for Wembley.
He will be desperate to impress, having been forced to watch the previous three games from the sidelines. He will also be re-energised too, and is hopefully an even better player thanks to the rest he has been able to get.
Shearer believes Newcastle are good enough to win the cup, but his answer might be different if Bruno wasn’t able to play. He is our talisman, and the one player who links the entire team together.
Pope is a big loss, but missing Bruno would have been worse. Fortunately, he returns on Sunday.
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