Guimaraes surprised at quick adaptation to Premier League

MADRID: Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes says he has surprised even himself at how quickly he has adapted to life in the Premier League since joining in January.

The 24-year-old Brazilian has been a key figure in Newcastle's transformation under manager Eddie Howe and produced another inspired display in the 2-0 win over Arsenal on Monday (May 16).

He scored his fifth goal since joining and was voted man-of-the-match for the third time in the 10 Premier League games he has started for the Magpies.

But it is his all-round game that has made the 40 million pounds (US$49.88 million) Newcastle paid Lyon for his signature look like tremendous value for money.

"To be honest, I didn't expect that I would adapt so fast to the Premier League," Guimaraes told Reuters by phone.

"I think what helped in my transition was the physicality of Ligue 1. It's very hard to play in France because they beat you up relentlessly. I had to get used to that, needed to gain five kilograms of muscle. My body changed, I got stronger.

"That was crucial to get me ready to play right away in the Premier League where the pace of the game is so intense."

Guimaraes leaves nothing to chance in his preparation for games, surrounding himself with a personal trainer, nutritionist and physio. He also has a gym and recovery room at his house and spends his free time watching soccer and studying language.

"I talked to several former players that regret not having taken care of their bodies and play longer, so why not listen to them while I'm still young?" he said.

"I like winning, I'm a competitive guy and I want to play at the highest level as long as I can. The decisions that I make now about how I train, take care of myself and how I live will impact my