Bruno Guimaraes injury update ahead of Newcastle vs Bournemouth

Bruno Guimaraes could make his long-awaited return for Newcastle United against Bournemouth this weekend.

The Brazil international has not been seen in action since picking up a hamstring injury in the 2-1 win over Tottenham in mid-February.

Newcastle were hopeful he would be able to return from his 11-game absence following this recent international break last weekend against Crystal Palace.

Illness delayed those plans, but Eddie Howe has seen plenty of positive signs in training this week.

While he stopped short of confirming the Brazilian’s availability, Guimaraes is pushing to make the squad for Saturday’s game against the Cherries.

‘There is a chance [he will be available],’ Howe told a press conference on Friday.

‘We’ve seen him in training. He’s pushing really hard to be back involved.

‘The medical team are trying to hold him back – there’s always that tug because the player desperately wants to play. I love that about Bruno.

‘I’ll make a decision based on what I see today in training. But there’s a possibility.’

Newcastle are heading into a huge summer with a number of their key players linked with moves away.

Anthony Gordon has reportedly decided his future lies elsewhere with Sandro Tonali a target for Manchester United.

‘I discuss things with players all the time. I don’t necessarily discuss transfer speculation unless I feel it’s got to a point that I have to,’ Howe said.

‘After I had the chat with Sandro (Tonali), the biggest thing I look for is the commitment to training because if I see that the player will perform. That will be same with Anthony and every player.

‘One thing I’m not going to do is play any player if I don’t feel they’re 100 per cent committed to the club and it’s future.’