'Unique' Newcastle star returns but Howe has new 'key' man after behind scenes work

Allan Saint-Maximin has returned from injury but Eddie Howe says Bruno Guimaraes is now Newcastle's 'key' man following his 'incredible' start to life at the club.

Saint-Maximin, 25, has missed Newcastle's last two games with a hamstring injury but is in contention to return for Saturday's trip to Brighton.

The French winger has been a key player for Newcastle since joining from Nice in 2019, but Howe believes Guimaraes has now become the team's most important player.

The Brazilian midfielder has made an instant impact since joining from Lyon in January, scoring five goals in his first 10 appearances for the club.

Howe said: "Bruno has been incredible since he came in. He's a top player and he's already shown what he can bring to the team."

"He's a key player for us now and we're lucky to have him."

Saint-Maximin is also a key player for Newcastle, but Howe believes Guimaraes is now the team's most important player.

Howe said: "Allan is a unique player and he's very important to us."

"But Bruno is a different type of player and he's brought something different to the team."

"He's a key player for us now and we're lucky to have him."

Newcastle are unbeaten in their last five Premier League games and are now ninth in the table.

Howe will be hoping that Saint-Maximin and Guimaraes can continue to play a key role in the team's success.