My job here is to try and keep the lads motivated

CAPTAIN SHOWING HIS LEADERSHIP IN TESTING TIMES

- By AARON STOKES

IN testing times, you need your leaders to step up. Thankfully, Eddie Howe has assembled quite a few of them during his time at Newcastle United.

The Magpies' summer has unfortunately been dominated by talk of one man - Alexander Isak - as he seeks pastures new, much to the despair and shock of the Newcastle fanbase.

But while one hero sees his stock plummet, others will no doubt benefit from this sorry saga due to their professionalism.

Bruno Guimaraes is certainly one to fall into that category, with the Brazilian attempting to make sure United's summer does not derail as their club-record signing pushes for the exit door.

The Brazilian has been hard at work attempting to lift morale around Benton, while ensuring concentration is solely on the start of the Premier League season.

As United's first-team and staff touched down in Singapore last month, having flown to the Far East without Isak on board, Guimaraes was the first to front up to the media to answer questions on the matter.

"My focus is with the lads," Bruno told reporters. "Alexander Isak is something I cannot control. The club has control of it."