‘He’s been awful’: John Anderson brutally criticises Newcastle United man in commentary last night – is he wrong?

Newcastle United have struggled for consistency this season, and their push for a Champions League spot owes much to an unexpected nine-game winning streak that temporarily lifted their campaign.

While that impressive run showcased the squad at its peak, a broader view of their performances suggests a more realistic expectation would be a top-eight finish.

Fortunately, aside from Liverpool, no other team has demonstrated unwavering form in the league, which has allowed Newcastle to remain within reach of the top four despite inconsistent displays.

Currently fluctuating between fifth and seventh place, the club remains in the conversation for a Champions League berth, even after a series of challenging fixtures.

Securing three points from clashes against Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, and Liverpool isn’t a disastrous outcome, considering the team’s recent struggles.

However, the overall lack of cohesion and energy on the pitch is concerning, and certain individuals have failed to meet the high standards expected of them, significantly affecting the squad’s overall effectiveness.

While Sandro Tonali’s struggles have been a talking point, Bruno Guimarães has also faced increasing scrutiny. During Newcastle’s latest fixture, BBC Radio Newcastle’s co-commentator John Anderson didn’t hold back in his assessment, describing the Brazilian midfielder’s recent performances as subpar.

Anderson remarked that Guimarães has looked off the pace, chasing shadows rather than dictating play as he has done in the past. His comments echoed the frustrations of many fans who have noticed a dip in the midfielder’s impact.

During the match, a moment involving Ibrahima Konaté exposed Guimarães’ lack of speed, with the Liverpool defender effortlessly accelerating past him.

While pace has never been the Brazilian’s strong suit, concerns extend beyond his physical attributes. His passing, decision-making, and ball control—three areas that typically define his game—have all been uncharacteristically poor in recent weeks.

Guimarães has always had a tendency to hold onto the ball for too long, often attempting to dribble past multiple opponents before making a pass. Against weaker opposition, this tactic can disrupt defensive structures and create space, but against elite teams like Liverpool, it leads to unnecessary turnovers and increased pressure on Newcastle’s defense.

Although comparisons to Allan Saint-Maximin’s frustrating playing style might be excessive, some fans have begun to question whether Guimarães would be the most logical high-value sale if Newcastle needed to comply with financial regulations.

Despite his undeniable talent, the argument for cashing in on him has gained traction, particularly given his current struggles. His leadership responsibilities as captain appear to be weighing heavily on him, and the added pressure may be affecting his performances.

Guimarães remains a key figure at Newcastle, and there is no doubt that he possesses the ability to rediscover his best form.

However, with the team fighting to secure a Champions League spot and maintain momentum in a competitive league, he must step up and reclaim his previous levels of influence.

The midfield needs stability, creativity, and composure—qualities he has demonstrated in the past but has lacked in recent outings. If Newcastle are to achieve their ambitions, Guimarães must shake off his slump and lead by example, proving once again why he is regarded as one of the team’s most valuable assets.