It is not worth thinking about where Newcastle United would be without Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian is perhaps Newcastle’s standout player, which is no mean feat considering they also have the excellent Alexander Isak in their squad too.
Eddie Howe’s side have not won a game the 26-year-old has missed since he made a £40m move to St James’ Park in January 2022, such has been his importance to the side.
Guimaraes, who may end up leaving the club this summer, capped off a special day for him against Fulham on Saturday by scoring the winning goal at Craven Cottage on what was his 100 appearance for the club.
While, long-term, Newcastle may have to get used to life without Guimaraes, they are almost free of one particular issue when it comes to his potential absence.
Currently on nine yellow cards, the midfielder will see the looming threat of a two-game ban should he get another one lifted if he comes through next week’s clash with Tottenham without going in the book.
It’s been a fantastic effort from Guimaraes to continue to star for Newcastle without stepping over the line and the midfielder has now shared a conversation with Howe behind the scenes about that very balance.
What Eddie Howe told Bruno Guimaraes about his bookings for Newcastle
Speaking to Premier League Productions after the win over Fulham, Guimaraes said: “It is hard because for me when I play for this club. I give everything, I am aggressive, so it is hard not to get yellow cards. I love to play football with energy and sometimes I am a little bit too strong.
“I spoke to the manager and he told me to play smarter. I have been doing this and there is just one more game to avoid one.”
Bruno Guimaraes is almost off the leash
It will be fantastic to see that threat of a ban lifted, all being well against Spurs.
Guimaraes, at his best, is as combative as he is constructive on the ball and that fighting spirit will be needed for the run-in.
Other than Spurs, Manchester United and Brighton, Newcastle will surely be expected to win the games they have remaining, which come against Crystal Palace, Sheffield United, Burnley and Brentford.
If they are to do that, having Guimaraes unleashed will be crucial.
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