Bruno Guimaraes arrival has lifted Newcastle’s midfield three

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Bruno Guimaraes looked like he would walk into the Newcastle United midfield when he joined from Lyon.

The Brazilian was a landmark arrival, and Toon fans were dreaming of his debut shortly after he landed in the country.

However, we’re yet to see Guimaraes start a game for the Magpies. He’s started the last three games on the bench, reduced to late substitute appearances in each.

We’re yet to see the 24-year-old influence a game, although we also haven’t seen him put a foot wrong during his limited minutes.

There is a real clamour from fans for Eddie Howe to start Guimaraes, but the Toon boss is taking his time.

It might be frustrating for some, but it is so far proving to be the right decision. While Guimaraes sits on the bench, those currently in midfield are getting better.

Newcastle’s current midfield three are undroppable

Howe has stuck with the same midfield three for the last four games – Joe Willock, Jonjo Shelvey and Joelinton.

The presence of Guimaraes on the bench hasn’t hindered them. If anything it’s given them a lift.

The increased quality in reserve means these players have to step up to ensure they remain in the starting XI. And they are certainly doing that.

Willock is playing his best football since he became a permanent Magpie, while the Joelinton renaissance continues to go into overdrive. As for Shelvey, some are suggesting he’s playing the best football of his Newcastle career.

For me that’s slightly over the top, but he is playing fantastically well in the middle of our central trio.

With add-ons, Guimarares will become the club’s record signing at £42million. But his arrival has led to a remarkable resurgence from £77million worth of talent (Willock £25million, Shelvey £12million, Joelinton £40million).

Bruno’s time will come, but for now it is fantastic to see the original Magpies raising their levels to ensure they keep their place in Howe’s side.

Newcastle’s January signings are already making a huge difference – some without even starting a game in black and white.