Eddie Howe insists he will only play Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali together IF it benefits the team – as Newcastle boss says it is his responsibility to find a way to do that

Eddie Howe says it is on him to find a way in which Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali can start games together for Newcastle – but has stressed it cannot be to the detriment of the team.

The Magpies boss has not paired the midfielders in the same starting XI since October, a run of four matches.

Tonali has been used from the bench in the last three and, with captain Guimaraes set to declare himself fit for Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace after a glute scare, it is likely the Italian will continue on the bench.

A section of supporters want to see Tonali restored to the side – his last start was an impressive outing in the No.6 position, since populated by Guimaraes – and Howe was asked if they are capable of playing together.

‘Anything is possible, of course they can,’ he said. ‘They are two outstanding players. It’s up to me to try and find a solution that works for both players and one that sees their qualities within the team.

‘You can put any player into the team and any combination of players into the team, but it’s got to be to the team’s benefit. It has to be right for both players to showcase their attributes. So, hopefully we can do that.’

Guimaraes and Tonali have not started together since last month in what is a run of four matches

Guimaraes is expected to be fit for the trip to Crystal Palace after limping off against West Ham

Howe was not happy with the contribution of the substitutes during Monday’s 2-0 defeat by West Ham, and that included £52million Tonali. How has he been this week?

‘He’s been good and has trained really well, especially this week, I’ve been really pleased with his contribution,’ said Howe.

‘He did really well when came on at Nottingham Forest, in a moment when that game was in the balance at 1-1. He played a big part in moving that game towards us (3-1 win). So he’s fighting for a place and is doing himself no harm with how he’s performing in training.’