“It’s a worry”: Eddie Howe sweats over Newcastle star’s fitness ahead of crucial run of fixtures

Eddie Howe is sweating over the fitness of Bruno Guimaraes after the midfielder limped during Newcastle’s 3-0 win over PSV.

Goals from Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes helped the Magpies breeze past the Dutch side and move into the Champions League top eight.

However, an injury to Bruno Guimaraes took the shine off what was otherwise a positive night in front of the St James Park faithful.

After appearing to land awkwardly on his right ankle, the Brazilian had to be replaced by Lewis Miley in the first half after initially attempting to carry on.

The incident comes ahead of a crucial run of fixtures for the Magpies, leaving Eddie Howe with an anxious wait over news of his return.

Eddie Howe hopes Bruno Guimaraes’ injury is “not serious”

When asked about the nature of Guimaraes’ injury after the game, Howe said: “A little bit sore. It’s an ankle problem; there is a little bit of swelling. We hope it is not serious, but it is difficult to know.”

However, the Englishman did acknowledge that the mere fact that Guimaraes had to come off was not a good sign.

Indeed, since arriving on Tyneside in 2022, the most consecutive games the Brazilian has missed through injury is three. It’s this kind of availability that has made Guimaraes a target for rival clubs.

“Bruno is the type of player who never wants to come off, he always wants to play. The fact he has come off is a worry for us,” Howe continued.

“We will do everything we can to get him fit as quickly as possible.”

The next four games will shape Newcastle’s season

Newcastle are already facing an injury crisis with Fabian Schar, Tino Livramento, Jacob Murphy, Emil Krafth and Jamal Lascelles all out of action.

If the Brazilian were to join them in the treatment room, it would be another huge blow ahead of what is a crucial run of fixtures for the Magpies.

In the Premier League, Eddie Howe’s men face Aston Villa this weekend before a trip to Liverpool next week as they look to build momentum in their push for European football.

Sandwiched between those games is a tough game away to PSG in the Champions League, with a difficult run rounded off with the Carabao Cup second-leg against Manchester City.

It’s the type of run which decides seasons, and Newcastle will certainly be weaker without their skipper in the side.

Newcastle United’s tough run of fixtures

Aston Villa (H) – 25/01

PSG (A) – 28/01

Liverpool (A) – 31/01

Manchester City (A) – 04/02

Bruno Guimaraes lucky to avoid red vs PSV after “outrageous” challenge

However, Guimaraes certainly made an impact on the game before going off injured.

At 2-0 up, the 28-year-old went in for a strong challenge on PSV midfielder Joey Veerman, who insists he was very “lucky” to walk away unscathed.

Anthony Gordon puts Newcastle 2-0 up ⚫⚪

But is Bruno Guimaraes lucky to still be on the pitch? pic.twitter.com/kbq2clLev9

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 21, 2026

Speaking to De Telegraaf after the game, the Dutchman said: “It hurts. It’ll probably last a while. It’s truly outrageous. He touched the ball first, he said. That’s why it wasn’t a red card. If this isn’t a red card, it’s over.

“He puts his foot full force over the ball and comes full force with his studs under my shin guard and on top of my ankle. If you’re unlucky, you’ll break your leg. I think I was lucky.”