Eddie Howe admits £35m signing Bruno Guimaraes is ‘not going to want to sit and watch much longer’

Eddie Howe says he is aware that £35million Brazil playmaker Bruno Guimaraes will not be happy sitting on the Newcastle bench for much longer.

The 24-year-old has made four substitute appearances since joining from Lyon last month in a deal that could rise to a club-record £41m.

Bruno is likely to be handed his first start during the forthcoming run of four matches in 12 days, and Howe says it is then down to the player as to whether he stays in the team.

The 24-year-old has made four substitute appearances since joining from Lyon in January

‘I think Bruno understands. He’s come into a team that is doing very well. Because of our season, and the way it’s unfolded, I have been reluctant to make too many changes when we’re in a good moment,’ said the head coach, whose side are unbeaten in seven ahead of Saturday’s visit of Brighton.

‘But he’s not going to want to sit and watch for a long period of time. He is going to want to play. 

‘The amount of games we’ve got coming up in this short period, he will get his opportunity. It’s then up to him to play so well that I don’t want to take him out.’

Howe talks openly about changing Newcastle’s playing style over a longer period. At present, they are profiting from the energy of a mobile midfield led by Joelinton and Joe Willock and the emphasis is not on possession football.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe (pictured) has talked openly about changing Newcastle’s playing style over a longer period

Newcastle are currently profiting from an energetic midfield that includes Joelinton (pictured) and Joe Willock

To that end, the manager admits Bruno’s attributes are better suited to the philosophy he hopes to implement over time.

‘We have highlighted that, longer term, we want to have more of the ball and play in a slightly different style than we are currently,’ said Howe.

‘That will take time to evolve. Bruno, I see, being a huge part of that. I’m looking forward to seeing more of him. 

‘He does play in a slightly different way, a more controlling way. 

‘He is a very creative passer and played two or three balls last week that were excellent.

‘I have been really pleased with the brief time we’ve seen him on the pitch.’