Eddie Howe told Bruno Guimaraes that his leaving Newcastle for good

Newcastle United have been looking for balance all season.

Having failed to back manager Eddie Howe in the transfer window over the course of the summer, Newcastle have had to work with what they’ve got.

Dan Burn has been moved into central defence following the failed pursuit of Marc Guehi, with Lewis Hall impressing at left-back.

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Both Anthony Gordon and Joelinton have been deployed at right-wing, such are the lack of compelling options in that berth.

Indeed, it’s been a case of the Newcastle United manager having to shift things around where possible.

The midfield, however, has long been an issue. Even last season before Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban from football, there were questions as to whether or not the Italian could effectively play in the middle of the park alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.

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There have been flashes this season but it’s not always worked, particularly after the Premier League defeat at Chelsea when Howe admitted all three could improve.

Still, Tonali has since been tried out as the deepest midfielder and starred there during the win over the Blues in the Carabao Cup before doing so again when up against Liverpool earlier this month.

Guimaraes again played in a more advanced position during the 4-0 win over Leicester on Saturday and got on the scoresheet.

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Asked about the Brazilian after the game, Howe was full of praise.

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Reflecting on Guimaraes and his display, Howe told BBC Sport: “He’ll be pleased. He played slightly further forward today. We’re pleased with how he’s performing.”

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