By Martin Graham
Newcastle United have been dealt a serious setback after club captain Bruno Guimaraes suffered a hamstring problem that is expected to rule him out for several weeks.
The Brazil international was forced to leave the pitch late on during Tuesday evening’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, only his second outing since returning from a separate ankle complaint.
Speaking shortly after the match, head coach Eddie Howe admitted the midfielder was uneasy about the issue, pointing out that Guimaraes had never previously encountered trouble with that muscle group.
Medical assessments have now indicated a lengthy absence, creating a major challenge for the Tyneside outfit.
Numbers underline his influence
Although Newcastle have experienced defeats even when Guimaraes has been involved – including last week’s 3-2 reverse against Brentford – the broader picture highlights his importance.
Since his arrival in February 2022, the Magpies have not managed a single Premier League victory in the 10 matches he has missed.
With the 26-year-old in the starting lineup, Newcastle’s success rate in the league rises sharply, with wins coming in just over half of those fixtures.
The side also averages more points per match, finds the net more frequently, and allows fewer goals when he is available.
Midfield options stretched
Despite the daunting statistics, Howe’s squad must adapt quickly as a demanding sequence of fixtures begins with Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash away to Aston Villa.
For that trip to Villa Park, only Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey are fit senior options in the centre of midfield.
There is some cautious optimism elsewhere, with Joelinton expected back soon following a groin issue.
In addition, the club are hopeful that youngster Lewis Miley’s absence, caused by a dead leg, will not be prolonged.