Bruno Guimaraes expression speaks volumes for Newcastle as Eddie Howe makes Miguel Almiron call

Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes left the pitch with a look of dissatisfaction, his performance seemingly not meeting his own high standards. This moment, however, reflects just how elevated the expectations are within the team.

Despite having an average game by his own measures, Bruno remained determined to give more before Eddie Howe substituted him to introduce fresh legs.

As the match concluded, the camaraderie and determination within the squad became evident. Howe offered his support to Bruno as he exited the field, and every member of the bench greeted the midfielder with high-fives.

Following a spirited response to their defeat against AFC Bournemouth, Newcastle demonstrated their resilience and commitment to securing Champions League qualification.

Bruno might find solace in knowing he captained his side to another crucial away victory. The match also marked a potentially significant moment for Miguel Almiron, who came on as a late substitute. Some believe it could be his final appearance for the club, and Howe’s decision to push Almiron toward the fans to soak in their applause added to the speculation about his future.

The game began with promise, as Bruno attempted an early pass to Joelinton, but the forward misread the opportunity, leading to a corner. Despite successive set pieces, Newcastle failed to capitalize on their early chances. Joelinton squandered another promising opportunity, firing over the bar after being set up from the right.

Southampton’s first real foray into Newcastle’s penalty area proved decisive. In the 10th minute, Kyle Walker-Peters created space by pulling Dan Burn out of position. James Bree then delivered a pinpoint cross, and Jan Bednarek rose unchallenged to head the ball past Martin Dubravka, giving the Saints an early lead.

Newcastle struggled to find their footing after the goal, with Southampton launching another attack three minutes later as Adam Armstrong tested Dubravka with a powerful shot. The Magpies’ fortunes shifted in the 21st minute when Mateus Fernandes received a yellow card for a rash challenge. Moments later, a penalty opportunity provided Newcastle with a lifeline.

Initially, referee Sam Barrott did not deem Joe Aribo’s contact on Alexander Isak sufficient for a penalty. However, upon reviewing the incident on VAR’s recommendation, Barrott awarded the spot-kick. Isak calmly converted, slotting the ball low into the left corner to score his 18th goal of the season.

Newcastle quickly capitalized on their momentum. Jacob Murphy’s incisive pass found Isak, who skipped past his marker and delicately struck the ball off the post to give Newcastle a 2-1 lead. The move began with Burn winning a header that Tonali nudged to Murphy, who threaded the decisive ball through the Saints’ defense.

Joelinton nearly extended the lead minutes later, but his shot struck the post, and Southampton narrowly avoided conceding again. Isak came close once more, but Saints’ goalkeeper Alex McCarthy denied him with a vital save. By halftime, Newcastle were in control, leading 2-1 and looking like the stronger side.

Southampton applied early pressure in the second half, with Dubravka making a crucial save to deny Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

However, Newcastle soon regained their dominance. In the 51st minute, Fabian Schar launched a long ball forward, which the Saints only partially cleared. Tonali won the second ball, and after a quick exchange with Anthony Gordon, the Italian surged forward and slid the ball past McCarthy to make it 3-1.

Murphy came close to adding to the tally with a long-range effort that struck the post. Newcastle continued to press, with Isak setting up Gordon, who then found Joelinton. Unfortunately, Joelinton’s effort was deflected wide.

Throughout the match, Newcastle showcased their attacking prowess and resilience, bouncing back decisively from early setbacks. Their ability to respond under pressure and take control of the game underlines their determination to secure a top-four finish this season. Bruno’s visible frustration at his performance, despite leading his team to victory, exemplifies the high standards within the squad.

As the season progresses, Newcastle will aim to build on this victory and maintain their push for Champions League qualification. With players like Isak in top form and a team ethos centered on collective effort and ambition, the Magpies look well-positioned to achieve their goals. The question remains whether this game marked the end of Almiron’s journey with the club, but for now, the focus remains on continuing their upward trajectory.