Alan Shearer delivers Bruno Guimaraes verdict after Newcastle's opening win over Nottingham Forest

Alan Shearer named Bruno Guimaraes as his man of the match as Newcastle United began their season with a comfortable win over Nottingham Forest. Goals from Fabian Schar and Callum Wilson were enough to seal a 2-0 victory for Eddie Howe's side in a dominant display against the newly-promoted outfit.

Summer signings Nick Pope and Matt Targett were handed starts, while Sven Botman made his competitive St James' Park debut as a stoppage-time substitute. There were a number of standout displays in black-and-white across the pitch as Forest were penned in their own half for much of the contest.

However, Newcastle legend Shearer named Guimaraes as his top performer as he took to social media to celebrate the victory. The Brazil international was forced to wait for his opportunity following his January arrival, but is now one of the first names on Eddie Howe's teamsheet following a scintillating finish to last season.

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Shearer's first posts during the victory came in response to the goals from Schar and Wilson. The BBC Sport pundit then posted his verdict on Guimaraes after the full-time whistle, writing: "MOTM @brunoog97 fantastic performance."

One fan replied: "Genuinely wonderful player, he could play for any team in the world. We are so lucky to have him!"

Another supporter commented: "He’s a top top player Al. Honestly wouldn’t be out of place in a Liverpool / Man City team

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Newcastle 2-0 Nottingham Forest as Fabian Schar and Callum Wilson goals seal dominant victory

Newcastle 2-0 Nottingham Forest player ratings as Fabian Schar,