Bruno Guimaraes gets striking response from Newcastle 'rivals' as Eddie Howe reveals true impact

Eddie Howe has admitted that Jonjo Shelvey, Joe Willock and Joelinton have raised their game because they know new signing Bruno Guimaraes is 'waiting for his opportunity' at Newcastle United.

The trio have deservedly started each of the Magpies' last four games after impressing in the middle of the park in recent weeks.

Bruno, in contrast, has been restricted to just 18 minutes of action from the bench since completing his big-money move from Lyon last month.

The Brazil international looks set to be named among the substitutes once more against Brentford on Saturday, but the midfielder won't have to wait long for his first start as Newcastle have a run of four games in 12 days next month.

"Of course, there's a place for him in there and one of the reasons why the midfield trio have performed so well is because Bruno has been there waiting for his opportunity," Howe told reporters on Zoom.

"That is one of the key things to a successful team. You don't just have 11 players; you need a squad of players fighting for places, which elevates the levels of the ones that are actually playing.

"I haven't wanted to change the team too much because it's the first time in the season where we've had really good rhythm, but Bruno will get his opportunity with the games we have coming up. Then it's up to him to make sure he performs well enough to stay in the team.

"I've spoken to him. I've spoken to every player about varying different things, about developing their games mainly. Maybe not about the decision not to start them or not."

Among those who will also be travelling to the Brentford Community Stadium is the injured Kieran Trippier, who has vowed to keep supporting his team-mates during his spell on the sidelines with a foot