Former Wolves player Dave Edwards believes Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes was the difference between the two teams last week.
The Magpies got back to winning ways at St. James’ Park, with Chris Wood grabbing the game’s only goal.
Newcastle needed a win to prevent panic stations setting in.
Eddie Howe’s side went into the game having lost three games in a row – slipping to a fourth would have been far from ideal.
But Newcastle put in a great display before the Toon faithful, with Wolves rather passive and safe.
The visitors were missing some key players like Ruben Neves and Raul Jimenez.
Neves was particularly missed for them, with youngster Luke Cundle partnering Joao Moutinho in the midfield.
Midfield was arguably where Newcastle won the game. It was a solid display from Bruno, Jonjo Shelvey and Joelinton.
And former Molineux midfielder Edwards reckons Bruno’s performance helped to swing it for the hosts.
And he likened Bruno’s influence for Newcastle to that of Neves – who has recently been valued up to £100 million by his manager – for Wolves
He said in the Express & Star: “Newcastle had Shelvey, Guimaraes and Joelinton and they ran all over us.
“Guimaraes was their big-money buy and he was the difference. Their version of Neves for us, with that quality.”
A fair assessment, Bruno Guimaraes was excellent against Wolves
Having a top quality player in the midfield really paid dividends for Newcastle against Wolves.
It was Bruno’s first start at St. James’ Park since his arrival at the club back in January.
After his performance on Friday night, he should now be starting every game he’s available for.
It is very clear that this is a special player.
It was fair enough that Howe had him on the bench a lot in the beginning due to the form of the other players.
But he impresses every time he takes to the field, and this is an important period for him now in terms of getting used to Premier League football for next season.
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