Bruno Guimaraes has hardly put a foot wrong during his time at Newcastle United but the midfielder's performance in the 5-1 win over Brentford is arguably the best we've seen from the dazzling Brazilian thus far.
Guimaraes helped himself to two goals and sparked fear into Brentford's stars during the emphatic win, with one question now emerging among Newcastle fans: Is he the best midfielder to ever play for the Magpies?
Fans of an older generation have seen the likes of Peter Beardsley, Paul Gascoigne, Rob Lee, Gary Speed and many, many more. Yet after only nine months on Tyneside, Guimaraes is already entering the conversation among sections of the fanbase.
Eddie Howe was presented with a similar question in his post-match press conference on Saturday when asked if Guimaraes was the best player he has ever coached. "I have coached some good individuals, but he would be right up there," the Newcastle boss responded.
"An incredible talent, an incredible person. We love him to bits, enjoying watching him, coaching him and playing a part in his development.”
Bruno's stock is rising at an exponential rate as he leads Newcastle into their new era. As such, big European suitors are likely to be sniffing around the former Lyon man in January and next summer.
However, Guimaraes sent a short message to Newcastle fans after Saturday's win, insisting he never had any doubts about choosing the north east outfit back in January. "I never doubted [Black, white heart emoji] with you," he wrote.
Reflecting on his second goal against Brentford, Bruno said: "I recovered the ball and went to do a pass. I didn't see anybody though. "I thought: 'I will just shoot' and it was beautiful. It was important because Brentford scored two minutes before so it was vital."
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