'Unbelievable player': Bruno Guimaraes left blown away by 'amazing' Newcastle ace after 3-1 win over Brentford

Newcastle United secured their place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup by beating Brentford 3-1 at St. James’ Park.

Sandro Tonali was the star of the show for Eddie Howe’s side, as he scored a brilliant brace.

Tonali opened the scoring for Newcastle with a tremendous strike from outside the box that delightfully moved through the air before beating Mark Flekken.

The former AC Milan midfielder’s second goal was another peach of a strike, as he rounded off an intelligent corner routine from the Magpies to score a well-taken volley.

Bruno Guimaraes assisted Fabian Schar, who gave the hosts a 3-0 lead before Yoane Wissa scored a consolation goal for Thomas Frank’s side.

After the contest, the Brazilian international was full of praise for Tonali.

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Bruno Guimaraes hails “unbelievable” Sandro Tonali

The 24-year-old’s quality has never been in question, with Alan Shearer describing Tonali as “very talented”. Eddie Howe labelled Tonali an “outstanding technician” as well.

Speaking to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie, Guimaraes initially revealed that ahead of Newcaste’s win against Brentford, he joked with the Italian technician that it was high time he scored.

“He went through a difficult moment in his career but he’s always been positive. He’s an unbelievable player and a really amazing guy.”

“This morning I joked with him, ‘it’s time for you to score my friend!’ So I was just as happy for him as if I scored the goals myself.”

Guimaraes went on to sing Tonali’s praises, disclosing that his grasp of the English language has improved while adding that the pair gel with each other due to rotating between themselves in the defensive and central midfield positions.

“He was out [suspended] but he was always there supporting us. He learned English already, is a massive player for us and I’m so proud of him.”

“I feel we complement each other and the gaffer has found a way to benefit the team with our positions. We rotate during the game who is the [number] six and who is the [number] eight and it is working.”

Sandro Tonali stats for Newcastle in 3-1 win over Brentford

Tonali proved he is a true match-winner, largely operating as a holding midfielder and yet, managing to score a brace of the highest order in a knockout fixture.

The Lodi-born powerhouse’s statistics indicate how influential he was for Newcastle against Brentford.

Tonali put in a true all-rounder’s display against Brentford.

In possession, the highly-rated midfielder was progressive with his passing, playing seven passes into the final third while also retaining the ball impressively well, misplacing just four out of his 60 passes.

Tonali and Guimaraes’ burgeoning partnership in midfield could prove to be the recipe for Newcastle to have a season to remember.