Newcastle United news: Pundit issues unexpected Guimaraes prediction after confirmed news pre-Villa
Noel Whelan has surprisingly tipped Bruno Guimaraes to be named on the bench again when Newcastle United take on Aston Villa.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds United striker said Eddie Howe will “know not to change a winning side” even though Guimaraes, 24, was “brought in for a reason.”
Guimaraes was a late substitute in the Magpies’ 3-1 win over Everton on Tuesday night.
As quoted by the Chronicle (11 February), Howe revealed Guimaraes is “ready to play” when his side welcome Aston Villa to St. James’ Park on Sunday.
Joelinton, Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock have started in a midfield three in wins against Everton and Leeds United.
When asked if he expected one to be dropped to make room in the starting XI for Guimaraes, Whelan made the unexpected claim that the big-name signing will be omitted.
He told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge:
“Eddie Howe has to stick to the side that is doing the job, as silly as it sounds.
“As much as Bruno Guimaraes is the star man and for £40million, they brought him in for a reason. I think it is a bit too soon to put him into the starting XI.
“Newcastle have got some consistency going with their performances. Their belief is back.
“No players looked out of place in that midfield. I thought they dominated the game from start to finish against Everton, quite frankly. I find it very difficult to see any change in that midfield.
“Howe is clever enough and experienced enough to know not to change a winning side.
“Another week of training and an appearance from the bench could best for Guimaraes.”
In other news, a pundit has claimed ‘Arsenal cannot do anything about’ Guimaraes repeat after ‘big’ Newcastle reveal.