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Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is raring to go in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester United as he looks set to return from his recent suspension.

Why was Bruno suspended?

The Brazilian midfielder has now been missing for Newcastle’s previous three games in the Premier League after picking up a straight red card in the game against Southampton.

Indeed, the 25-year-old may feel incredibly fortunate to be in the picture for Sunday’s game after serving the required three-game suspension in the three games between the semi-final second leg and the final.

And speaking on The Magpie Channel TV YouTube account, Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has claimed the midfielder is eager to get going on Sunday:

(5:50) “I know for a fact he is absolutely desperate to get back involved. I think he’s just been like an excited school kid for the last few weeks looking forward to this game.

“In a way, I don’t think it’s a bad thing he’s had a rest for a couple of weeks because I think he looked like he probably needed that. Hopefully, he’s match sharp enough.”

Will Bruno Guimaraes start in the cup final?

Guimaraes has played a huge role in Newcastle’s recent success since landing on Tyneside last January and has already racked up 41 appearances for the Toon.

And in those games, he has been able to provide them with a return of nine goals and four assists across all competitions (via Transfermarkt).

But the more impressive stat and what may reassure Newcastle fans even more going into the final on Sunday is that with Guimaraes in the starting XI this season, they have not lost a single game.

Newcastle’s record this term has been seriously impressive having only lost three games across all competitions so far.

The Brazilian did play a part in the defeat against Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup back in January, however, it has to be noted he did come off the bench with only half an hour to play.

And with their only two league defeats of the campaign coming in the two games against Liverpool which the 25-year-old was not involved in, this will surely suggest he is set to return straight to the XI.

Records aside, the Brazilian has now been out of competitive action since last month which should mean he will come into the game at Wembley full of energy.

This could prove an exciting prospect for those at Newcastle with the United side coming into the game on Sunday having played on Thursday and on the back of a much more gruelling set of fixtures.

Phil Hay believes if Leeds United stay up this season they could try and appoint either Andoni Iraola or Arne Slot.

The Lowdown: Leeds put their trust in Skubala

After a thankless task of trying to find Jesse Marsch’s successor Victor Orta has appeared to give up for now by handing the reigns to former assistant coach Michael Skubala after he took charge of the two prior games.

In those two matches, Skubala managed to pick up a point away at Old Trafford, but now the important matches are coming up against fellow relegation strugglers Everton and Southampton.

Skubala will be aiming to pick up maximum points from those matches but they most certainly can’t afford to lose as that could potentially see either of those sides leapfrog Leeds in the table.

The Latest: Iraola or Slot could join in the summer

Hay has claimed on The Phil Hay Show that if Leeds managed to maintain their Premier League status then Orta could go back in for one of Slot or Iraola having been rejected over the last week.

He said: (25:45) “I do think if Leeds stay up that’s absolutely an option they will revisit in the summer [Iraola] again likewise with Arne Slot but Slot as well at Feyenoord were very resistant to the idea of him going to Leeds and he said himself publicly that he wouldn’t be.”

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The Verdict: A crucial few months

These next few months could well morph Leeds’ future because if they stay up then it may be a bright horizon for the Whites with an impending takeover from the 49ers enterprise allowing them to spend heavily on their stadium and squad.

However, if they fail to avoid the drop back into the Championship then the 49ers may well be put off the idea of buying Leeds or if they do still proceed with the takeover, then it would certainly set them back a few years.

Skubala will know the pressure resting on his shoulders to get an out-of-form Leeds side back firing on all cylinders because if he keeps the club up then he could well have laid the foundations for a more wanted and experienced coach to come in and take the Whites forward onto bigger and better things.

Everton have reportedly held talks with Sam Allardyce over potentially replacing Frank Lampard as Toffees manager.

The Lowdown: Bielsa number one

As per The Daily Mail, former Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa is the Goodison Park outfit’s number one choice to replace Lampard, but is getting ‘cold feet’ over accepting the position.

He has told the Merseyside club’s officials that the team is ‘too slow’ to play the way that he wants, and says that they must ‘prioritise pace’ in terms of recruitment in the last week of the transfer window.

This comes after Tottenham Hotspur hijacked their move for Villarreal winger Arnaut Danjuma, while the pacy Anthony Gordon could be set for a move to Newcastle United.

The Latest: Allardyce talks

According to The Daily Mail, key figures within the Everton hierarchy are ‘admirers’ of their former boss Allardyce, and have ‘held initial talks’ over him potentially replacing Lampard.

The feeling is that Allardyce’s experience of keeping teams up would give the Toffees a ‘strong chance’ of staying up, as they currently sit in the relegation zone in the Premier League and two points away from safety.

The Verdict: Safe pair of hands

Given Allardyce’s astonishing record of keeping teams up in the Premier League, where he has only suffered one relegation despite managing eight different clubs, the Englishman man would be a safe pair of hands for the Blues as they look to avoid dropping down to the Championship.

Of course, he also has experience of managing Everton before, guiding them to a respectable eighth place in the 2017/2018 season despite the disillusionment of fans with his style of play, so will know the club well from top to bottom.

Nonetheless, Allardyce has also expressed his admiration for some players in the Toffees squad, including target man Dominic Calvert-Lewin and club captain Seamus Coleman, and will feel that he can get the best out of those players from now until the end of the season.

However, the 68-year-old has recently shared his concern with the club’s current situation, and so it may take some persuading for him to return to Goodison.

Tottenham Hotspur rely heavily on the efforts of their wing-backs to uphold Antonio Conte’s system, and as such the failings on both sides are exacerbated because of their importance.

Ivan Perisic’s signing was a shrewd one, adding experience and a winners mentality to a dressing room devoid of such a characteristic.

It was expected that he would occupy the left flank with ease, and with five assists thus far he has hardly disappointed.

But, at 33 years old, there is little expectation that he can continue this for the foreseeable future.

Therefore, his Italian manager must strive to find his long-term successor and seems to have sent Fabio Paratici on such a mission.

The director of football has seemingly since returned, with reports circulating that link the Lilywhites with a move for French youngster Adrien Truffert. Whilst only briefly mentioned, it is said that the north London outfit are monitoring the 21-year-old with a keen eye.

There is a belief that, with his attacking exploits down the left-hand side, he could emulate the successes of his legendary compatriot Patrice Evra in the Premier League.

The Manchester United hero joined from AS Monaco in 2006, also in the January transfer window, and struggled at first. However, having now retired and filled his trophy cabinet with many Premier League and Champions League titles, this is the ultimate goal for Spurs to attain.

They will hope that Truffert can bring such success with him to the club, with his ability going forward likely to play a big role for many years to come should he join.

Boasting a keen eye for an assist but the defensive qualities to match, the Frenchman is the quintessential modern defender.

Having secured five assists already this season in Ligue 1, he ranks in the top 6% for assists per 90 when compared with other full-backs across Europe.

This is supplemented by an impressive number of blocks and aerials won per game, of which he also sits in the top 4% and 16% respectively when compared against the same group.

His fine all-around displays have captured the attention of the French media, with RMC Sport labelling him “incredible” after one of his many outstanding performances.

To offer such defensive security yet be so clinical going forward is a rare skillset to boast, which Evra managed to attune as part of one of the best sides ever assembled.

Across his time at Old Trafford, he would record ten goals and 38 assists whilst accumulating a mammoth 379 appearances. His dynamism was likely well appreciated by Sir Alex Ferguson, given his longevity within his side.

He was merely a flash of what the modern-day defender might become, and now Truffert could show the world the full vision with a move to Spurs.

Manchester United are among the ‘main contenders’ to sign Atletico Madrid star and Arsenal target Joao Felix in January, reliable journalist David Ornstein has claimed.

The Lowdown: Felix linked with United move

The Portuguese superstar has fallen out of favour under Diego Simeone this season, being limited to only six starts in La Liga, despite his obvious talent.

Felix has been linked with a move to United in order to earn more minutes elsewhere, with Erik ten Hag potentially seeing him as an ideal January addition, given the ability to play up front or in various positions across the attack.

With the transfer window now open, it looks as though the Red Devils could be tussling with a Premier League rival for the 23-year-old’s services.

The Latest: Ornstein drops fresh update

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Ornstein claimed that United and Arsenal are the front-runners to snap up Felix:

“Atletico Madrid ready to loan Joao Felix – Man Utd & Arsenal main contenders at present. Both expressing firm interest in 23yo forward but at nowhere near €21m package Atleti currently want (€15m fee + €6m wages for 6 months).”

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The Verdict: Snap him up

While Felix isn’t necessarily the out-and-out striker that United are crying out for in January, the chance to sign him until the end of the season is still too good to ignore.

The youngster is a past winner of the European Golden Boy award, such is his quality, and he has been described as a ‘special’ player by Alvaro Morata and adored by Bruno Fernandes for both his ability and attitude.

Felix would add a sprinkling of magic to United’s attack, enhancing their top-four chances, and he is still perfectly capable of taking up a central role in between Marcus Rashford and Antony, even though he often plays as a No.10.

Pundit Paul Robinson has urged Liverpool to think twice before allowing Fabinho to depart.

The Lowdown: Midfield issues

Despite still ranking as the Premier League’s joint-fourth best defence, the Reds have struggled in comparison to last season, with 17 goals already conceded. At this point, they are just nine goals away from equalling their season total of last year – having played less than half of the games. 

The midfield issues have been a big part of this unfortunate feat, and it could be argued that Fabinho’s loss of form is one of the biggest problems in that area.

That said, Jurgen Klopp has already suffered enough difficulties in midfield over the last season or so and will surely not want to be without his top defensive midfielder, so it is a surprise to see rumours circling that the former Monaco man’s future is ‘in doubt’.

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The Latest: Robinson’s advice

Asked by Football Insider about the chatter now surrounding the Brazilian’s future, Robinson said: “Look, I think we are all a bit quick to forget just how good Fabinho is.

“He has been one of Liverpool’s best players over the past few years.

“They simply cannot sell him until they have a ready-made replacement through the door. Jurgen Klopp has enough problems in midfield without losing a player like Fabinho.

“How much is he worth? It’s a difficult one. I don’t think Liverpool would consider anything less than £50million.

“It is not as if he is old. He still has another three or four years at the very top.

“I wouldn’t say they should keep him at all costs but they certainly need a replacement ready if they are to sell.”

The Verdict: Keep him!

To let a player of Fabinho’s calibre, at the age of 29 – in and around his prime years – would represent a dreadful blunder by the Reds.

Even more so when you consider the fact that Naby Keita looks set to leave, with his contract expiring at the end of the season. 

And while the Guinean’s constant injury issues mean his potential departure is no surprise, Liverpool cannot afford to lose both assets at once considering the lack of depth in the centre of the park is already a problem.

Injury analyst Ben Dinnery says that Everton winger Andros Townsend could return from injury ‘quicker’ than expected.

The Lowdown: Continuing his recovery

Speaking as a pundit during Switzerland’s 1-0 win over Cameroon at the World Cup for ITV, the 31-year-old shared that he was continuing his rehabilitation in the Middle East, but he refused to be drawn on a potential return date.

He has not played at Goodison Park since March after suffering an ACL injury, but there will be hope that he can make a return in the second part of the season.

The Latest: Early return for Townsend?

Speaking to Football Insider, Dinnery has claimed that Townsend continuing his rehab in the Middle East instead of back at Finch Farm could give him a ‘boost’, resulting in him potentially returning to the pitch ‘quicker’ than initially thought.

The injury analyst said: “Psychologically, just a change of environment away from Finch Farm with a bit of sun on your back, of course, that’s going to help. Who wouldn’t want to get away from England at this point in time?

“It gives you a different outlook and you’re away from that emphasis and focus on yourself and sometimes that gives you a boost.

“Players are tracked but we’re talking about Andros Townsend, a professional who has been at the top of his game who is never in the headlines for the wrong reasons.

“He understands his body, he knows what needs to be done and he’s focused on that recovery. From what I understand, he is a player who you could put your explicit trust in.

“I think it’s a good thing for him. I don’t think it hinders him in any way, shape or form.

“Again, it’s an opportunity to access some support. I don’t know if he’s there or not, but we have the Aspetar clinic which is based out in Doha and considered to be one of the leading authorities in medical care and rehabilitation.

“It’s an opportunity to have a different pair of eyes on it and go through a different stage of training. All of this culminates in getting Andros back and hopefully a return to play is quicker than you would normally see.

“I don’t see any issues with him being out in Qatar.”

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The Verdict: Could be a welcome boost

Of course, Everton need to ensure that they do not rush Townsend back after such a serious injury, but his return could be a welcome boost for Frank Lampard and the team.

At 31 years of age, the winger is one of the more senior players in the squad, and he boasts plenty of Premier League experience.

He has been involved in relegation battles before, with the Toffees last season and also during spells at the likes of QPR, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace; and given their position in the table, Everton may need to count on that experience once more.

The £40,000-per-week winger may not find himself on the pitch too often from now until the end of the campaign, but Townsend could well turn out to be a key figure in the dressing room.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly in the running for Borussia Monchengladbach striker, Marcus Thuram, although are likely to face competition for the Frenchman’s signature.

What’s the word?

According to transfer insider Dean Jones – speaking to GIVEMESPORT – Spurs could face a battle with north London rivals Arsenal to sign the 25-year-old, with the four-cap menace facing an uncertain future in Germany with just a matter of months left on his existing deal.

The respected source stated: “The Thuram situation isn’t totally clear yet, but it’s reasonable to believe he’s considering his next move. Arsenal have been linked with him too, so there might yet be a bit of a scrap for him if he fancies actually moving to England.”

This comes amid a report from The Sun that claimed Antonio Conte’s side – as well as the Gunners, Liverpool and Newcastle United – are interested in the former Guingamp man, with the 6-foot-4 marksman able to seal a pre-contract agreement in the New Year, or leave for nothing in the summer.

Conte’s next Lautaro

Thuram has warranted such attention amid his sparkling form at club level so far this season, having scored 13 goals and provided four assists in just 17 games across all competitions, with his tally of ten Bundesliga goals only bettered by compatriot, Christopher Nkunku (12), across the division.

That hot streak – which has ensured that the Parma-born gem’s overall record for Gladbach stands at 67 goal involvements in 119 games to date – has seen the forward included as a late pick in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup, with journalist Raj Chohan tipping him to “make an impact” at the tournament.

While a positive stint in Qatar could only add to the growing list of suitors, as far as Tottenham are concerned they will likely be hoping to edge in the race to secure his services, with Conte said to be keen on bringing in a new attacker as part of a January overhaul.

The Italian could well see Thuram as an ideal fit to strengthen his forward line, with the £8.7m-rated gem – who has been dubbed a “physical monster” by Herve Renard – sharing a number of statistical and stylistic similarities with Inter Milan hotshot, Lautaro Martinez, as per FBref.

That likeness is illustrated by the fact that the pair both compare favourably to those in their position in Europe with regards to non-penalty goals, with the Argentine sensation averaging 0.57 per game for that metric, while Thuram averages just slightly lower at 0.54.

Equally, the two men are also vital figures as a result of their willingness to put in the hard yards in attack, with the latter man ranking in the top 10% for interceptions made, while Martinez ranks in the top 5% for the same metric.

The San Siro starlet was notably a key part of Conte’s title-winning side during the experienced coach’s recent spell in Milan, with the 25-year-old forming a stunning and formidable attacking partnership with Romelu Lukaku, the pair netting 41 times between them as part of that Scudetto triumph in the 2020/21 campaign.

The hope would be that Thuram could have a similar impact were he to link up with the former Chelsea boss in N17, with such an acquisition likely to be the type of additional firepower that the club are currently craving.

The Athletic’s Nottingham Forest reporter Paul Taylor has shared that Giulian Biancone has picked up an injury in training, ruling him out for the season.

The Lowdown: One of the 23 new arrivals…

Biancone was one of the 23 new signings that Forest made in the summer as they went through a major squad overhaul following promotion to the Premier League.

He arrived from Ligue 1 side Troyes for a reported £5m, which was a club-record sale for them, but he has only made three appearances for the Reds so far this season.

The Latest: Biancone out for the season

Taking to Twitter, Taylor has shared an injury update on Biancone from Steve Cooper’s pre-game press conference ahead of Forest’s match at home to Brentford on Saturday afternoon.

The journalist tweeted: “Bad news from #NFFC press conference – Giulian Biancone has suffered a serious knee injury in training. The defender is unlikely to feature again this season.”

The Verdict: Blow for player and club

Even though Biancone has hardly featured in the current campaign, losing him for the rest of the season is still a blow, both for him and Forest.

The Reds also have fellow defenders Moussa Niakhate (hamstring), Omar Richards (fracture) and Harry Toffolo (hamstring) all out injured as well, with only Richards in line to return before the World Cup break, so Cooper’s big squad is starting to get slimmer in terms of options.

Forest supporters would surely have wanted to see more of their summer signing Biancone on the pitch, but now the 22-year-old will not be able to contribute any further to what is likely to be a Premier League relegation battle.

Crystal Palace are reportedly considering a move for Middlesbrough right-back Isaiah Jones in the January transfer window, and the youngster could prove to be the next Aaron Wan-Bissaka at Selhurst Park.

According to Alan Nixon, Palace are keen on bringing the 23-year-old to south London in the winter transfer window, having missed out on signing him in 2019 when he was with Tooting and Mitcham just five miles away.

Instead, Jones signed for Middlesbrough, where he has established himself as one of the most exciting young defenders in the Championship in recent years.

After loan spells with St Johnstone and Queen of the South, the latter of which saw him notch six assists in just 12 appearances, Jones returned to the Riverside Stadium and has been a key fixture in the Boro side ever since.

In 63 appearances for the Teessiders, the versatile right-sided player has contributed three goals and 12 assists, including two goals and three assists in 15 Championship appearances this season.

Despite a tricky start to the campaign which saw Chris Wilder sacked, Jones has still been on top form for Middlesbrough, with WhoScored ranking him as the squad’s top performer so far this season with an average rating of 6.9/10.

Patrick Vieira could well be in the market for a right-back considering he has just Joel Ward (32) and Nathaniel Clyne (31) as options in that role. The latter is currently out injured, while both are approaching the end of their careers at the top level.

Therefore, Jones could be an exciting young prospect for Vieira to have in his squad and would surely add some attacking quality in defence which the Eagles arguably lack at the moment, with the full-backs having contributed no goals and just one assist between them so far this season.

If the youngster does join Palace and become a hit, he could follow in the footsteps of Wan-Bissaka, who starred at Selhurst Park as a right-back before earning a £50m move to Manchester United in 2019.

While Jones’ main strength is in his attacking play and Wan-Bissaka’s was defending, there is little doubt that the 23-year-old could prove to be “fantastic” (in the words of Middlesbrough’s Dael Fry) should he join Vieira’s side in January, and he could be the next English youngster that Palace develop and sell on for a big fee.