Eddie Howe discusses alternative midfield plans with Sean Longstaff ruled out against Brighton

Lee Ryder’s verdict on Eddie Howe’s presser

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Eddie Howe knows he might have to send his two Brazilian stars Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes back into another intense battle in the Premier League against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Without Sean Longstaff, Newcastle have looked vulnerable in midfield but Howe made a few midfield tweaks at Leeds in the 2-2 draw and got the job done as Joelinton formed a partnership with Bruno at Elland Road. Longstaff has been ruled out for the clash with the Seagulls meaning Howe may ask Joelinton and Bruno to hold the midfield again.

Against Leeds Joelinton made four interceptions while Bruno weighed in with three. Both are more than able to keep things together in the final three games if needs be.

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Howe told Chronicle Live: “They are very different players. But Joelinton has just been incredible, physically this year.

“What he gives in every game it is never taken for granted by me or the coaching staff. Or certainly his team-mates – he’s a player that just gives his all in every match.

“Bruno physically has been really good. He’s had a couple of ankle problems but he seems to have got back to his very best in terms of his physical output.”

Reflecting on the duo’s performance against the Yorkshire side, Howe felt they listened to instructions well. And despite those tweaks delivered what he asked for.

Howe said: “I thought the pair of them dovetailed really well. We changed the system a couple of times and they ended up playing together. I thought that they were really strong.”

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