Bruno Guimaraes on Newcastle, Brazil and giving his life for World Cup glory

Bruno Guimaraes is clearly excited to go to the World Cup with Brazil this summer, but the Newcastle United captain has the small matter of steadying the ship at his club first.

Newcastle have missed Bruno Guimaraes immensely after the Brazilian was sidelined for 10 weeks with a hamstring injury and a case of mumps.

He made his return to action on Saturday in the defeat to Bournemouth, and he made an immediate impact, forcing Evanilson into an error, which put Will Osula through on goal to score.

Of all the players this season, he and Lewis Hall are the two we can't really question. We'd add Lewis Miley to that, too, but that long lay-off with a dead leg? What was that about?

Bruno has one eye on the World Cup

We are loath to say that Newcastle are a one-man team, but it's undeniable just how much better we are with our captain in the side.

And while the 28-year-old will undoubtedly help Newcastle up their game in the remaining five matches, he also has an eye on the World Cup this summer, telling Globo Esporte that he's willing to die on the pitch to bring the trophy home for his country.

“If it depends on us players, like I said, for me it’s like it’s the last meal. I will give my life for it.

“If I have to die on the pitch for Brazil, I will. Because this has always been my biggest dream – to wear the Brazil shirt at a World Cup. 

“If we can become champions, which I truly believe, it will be unforgettable.”

Bruno loves the stability at Newcastle

Brazil always go into big tournaments as one of the favourites, but they have been far from their usual world-beating selves of late, and Bruno is aware of that and has even compared the recent raft of changes with the national set-up against the stability of life at Newcastle.

“It’s very difficult. At Newcastle, they already speak and with a few hand movements, we know what needs to change, we understand exactly what he (Howe) wants. We can adapt much more easily.”

“I think the cycle has been a bit turbulent (at Brazil). There have been many changes, not only managers but also presidents. A lot has happened, and we are still trying to adapt as quickly as possible to Ancelotti.”

No offence, Bruno, we love you, but if Brazil have a stinker of a tournament, that's one less obstacle for England to overcome.