Eddie Howe says losing Bruno Guimaraes for Newcastle's Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Arsenal, live on Holasports, to suspension is a big blow for his team.

Guimaraes picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Tottenham meaning he has picked up a one-match suspension, joining Fabian Schar on the banned list.

"It’s a big blow, Bruno, one of his biggest strengths is he’s always there for you. His appearance record has been brilliant for us, especially with the physical exertion is very good and he’s exceptional in every way.

"He’s a pivotal figure for us, he’s going to be a big miss. But we have big players who can fill his shoes as well. Whoever I choose in that position, we have quality players coming in."

Guimaraes has formed a solid partnership with Sandro Tonali and Joelinton in recent weeks, which has sparked a six-game winning run for the Magpies in all competitions.

Asked if the Tonali-Joelinton-Guimaraes is the best midfield partnership in the Premier League, Howe replied: "I’m not watching every Premier League game so it’s a difficult one to comment on.

"I love the three players who are in there at the moment, I love the three players who aren’t in there at the moment, the ones who we have in the squad.

"It’s a strong area at the moment, they have built strong relationships with each other, that’s why losing Bruno from that trio will be disruption to the normal rhythm of how we’ve played in recent games."