Bruno Guimaraes doesn’t sound convinced that he’ll be fit to face West Ham this weekend.
Speaking at a meet and greet with fans at St James’ Park yesterday, the midfielder admitted he’s not sure if he’ll be fit for Sunday’s game at the London Stadium.
After picking up a knock during the final stages of our Carabao Cup win over Tranmere, he’s gone on to miss our last three Premier League games against Wolves, Liverpool and Crystal Palace with a hamstring injury.
Eddie Howe insisted last week that the injury isn’t serious, but Guimaraes’ response when asked if he’ll be fit for West Ham – which would see him play against best friend Lucas Paqueta – didn’t fill me with much confidence during yesterday’s meet and greet at the official club shop.
Here’s what he had he told NUFC TV when quizzed on his fitness ahead of Sunday’s game (you can watch his response 2:45 into the video below):
“I’ve been working hard for this.
“It’s my goal (to be fit for West Ham), but I don’t know if I will be ready.
“I know I need to answer this question for a lot of fans today!
“I’m doing my best to be ready as soon as possible.”
We’ve not won any of our last games without him in the side, so let’s hope the Brazilian can make a full recovery in time for Sunday, with Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson two other big misses who we’ll be hoping to have back soon.
He’s not going to tell random fans whether he’s fit or not. It gives an advantage to West Ham if they can prepare for a few days with the knowledge that Bruno will be playing.
Kevin Mclaughlin(Quote)
He’s speaking to NUFC TV here, not Newcastle fans.
He leaves it open, but reading between the lines it sounds – and looks – like he won’t be ready in time, IMO.
Olly Hawkins(Quote)