Howe drops hints on Malick Thiaw, Bruno Guimaraes and his future at Newcastle
Eddie Howe has admitted that Malick Thiaw is a "very good player", suggesting Newcastle United are big admirers of the centre-back after constant links with the AC Milan defender.
Speaking to the local media who have joined the squad in Japan, it felt telling that he revealed his admiration of the German, as Howe often refuses to even discuss any player linked with a potential move.
As for Bruno Guimaraes, the boss spoke like a man who knew the Brazilian was staying, saying "now we can focus on him being at Newcastle and having another season like he did last year" after his £100m release clause was no activated.
His message (see them all below) in response to England rumours and his own future at the club was equally reassuring, insisting he is "fully committed" to Newcastle and his players now it. "There is nothing to talk about", he said.
Howe on Malick Thiaw rumours - “There are no updates on that…I’m always reluctant to comment on these things. But he is a player I know about. Of course I do, from our games in the Champions League against Milan. He is a very good player but that is it.”
Howe on England links - "I have had no contact whatsoever from anybody - I am fully committed to Newcastle. There is nothing to talk about, I do not need to address the players. They know how by how I act and I hope they can see how I am on a daily basis to see how committed I am to the club too."
Howe on Bruno Guimaraes - "We're delighted to have him back. It always gives us a boost and suddenly we have more numbers in training. Today was the first day we have seen the group at its strongest this summer and we have quality returning with Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier.
"His release clause was never something on my mind. I don't think it was on his mind either but of course it was there and I am really delighted it has passed with nothing happening. Now we can focus on him being at Newcastle and having another season like he did last year."
