Newcastle United have had to deal without a number of key players this season.
Indeed, Eddie Howe has rarely had a full compliment available for Newcastle during his second full campaign in charge, such has been the extent of the injury crisis.
While, clearly, this season hasn’t been as good as last, the squad have dealt with it fairly well.
Lewis Miley has starred during his breakout campaign, while Tino Livramento has proven equally as impressive. Even Martin Dubravka, despite some initial doubts, has done well at times.
Still, there is one man Newcastle simply cannot do without. They are yet to win a Premier League game without Bruno Guimaraes since his £40m move from Lyon in January 2022.
The Brazilian is currently walking something of a tightrope too. Another booking would take him up to ten yellow cards for the season, which would then see him banned for two games.
Despite that looming threat, Howe is pleased with what he’s seeing.
Bruno Guimaraes yellow cards: Newcastle latest news
Speaking to The Chronicle on Friday ahead of Saturday’s trip to Arsenal, Howe said: “He’s managed it really well so far.
“He’s just been his normal self. He hasn’t looked as though it’s conscious in his mind because I don’t think it can be. He’s played with discipline.”
Bruno Guimaraes vs Arsenal: Newcastle must avoid repeat
Guimaraes is a combative player and that, along with his ability with the ball, has seen become a hero on Tyneside.
However, the 26-year-old can ill-afford to take the kind of risk he did when Newcastle last met the Gunners.
He was perhaps lucky to avoid punishment after clashing with Jorginho at St James’ Park in November, so it will be important not to get rattled should Arsenal come looking for revenge.
Newcastle simply cannot do without him.
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