Bruno Guimaraes says he went two days without sleep before putting in 'one of his best performances of the season' against Spurs.
The talented Brazilian midfielder, who has been a revelation at St James' Park since his £40m move from Lyon in January, continues to play a pivotal role for Newcastle as they improve week-on-week.
And on Sunday afternoon, Eddie Howe's side crept into the Premier League top four thanks to first-half goals from Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron – the in-form Paraguayan that keeps on proving Jack Grealish wrong.
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Like he has done on numerous occasions this season, Guimaraes pulled the strings from midfield against Antonio Conte's men. The 24-year-old, who has featured in nine games for the Magpies this season, is not only a creative outlet but he defends well, too. I mean, just check out these stats from earlier this month.
Newcastle walked away from North London with all three points and after the full-time whistle, an exhausted Guimaraes gave an insight into his week by posting a picture of his new baby son, Matteo.
"This is for you guys," he wrote on Twitter. "Two days without sleep could be at home but I always wanted to be here with you! Thanks for the support and a kiss from Matteo to you!! He is Brazilian Geordie."
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That's right. To the surprise of many fans – and even manager Eddie Howe – the 24-year-old had gone two days without sleep in preparation for the Spurs game.
One supporter commented: "No sleep, still bosses it. Different level," while another said: "I actually love this bloke more than several members of my family."
After the tweet was posted, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe spoke to the media about Bruno's dedication.
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"He's kept that quiet from me," he smiled. "I knew about one night but not about two! It wouldn't have changed my decision as he's so pivotal to what we do. He's given his heart and soul to club. It was one of his best performances."
On the birth of his son, Howe said before the game: "I'm delighted for him and his family, an amazing moment. I think he was quite rightly emotional at the birth of his son.
“We didn’t discuss too much. We knew if the baby arrived in good time, he would travel down and make the match. He travelled down late last night. He travelled separately. He didn’t come with us. We decided to give him the morning with his wife and his baby.”
Bruno has quickly become a fan favourite at St James' Park and some comments made in a recent interview with Sky Sports will only enhance his reputation.
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"I think I was born to play in the Premier League," he said. "I love the atmosphere. I love the intensity of the game. It is the most difficult league, of course. There are no easy games. But when you play well here, it makes you think you can play in any competition.
"I think that, and the pressure when I came, has helped me to develop, to be the player I am now."
He added: "I love playing here, I love to bond with the fans, and I want to become a legend here."
Thoughts on Bruno Guimaraes' impact at Newcastle since his arrival? Is he one of the Premier League's best midfielders right now?
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Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Newcastle United, Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur, Eddie Howe