Bruno Guimaraes vents anger at 'doubters' as Newcastle United size up Liverpool

Bruno Guimaraes hit out at "doubters" who wrote off the Magpies after their recent dip in form but in fairness backed up his own words by delivering what he'd vowed in a social media post last week.

The Brazil international was the pick of some observers for man of the match at the London Stadium with some swayed by his winning goal in the 63rd minute. The South American had made it clear that everybody needed to stick together after the rocky Premier League form and FA Cup exit against Brighton.

After roaring "blame me" at critics in a bid to shield some of his team-mates, Bruno stamped his authority on the clash at the London Stadium. As he orchestrated the travelling Toon Army in London, Bruno looked emotional but happy and was close to tears of joy.

With the adrenaline still pumping, Bruno told reporters: "The people doubt us, but we have no doubts; we have a lot of focus on ourselves and belief in the players we have in the squad.

Of course, we are missing players, and that's not good for us, but today, we showed we have a strong squad."

The standard of opposition now cranks up for Wembley against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final, but with the same type of spirit and battling qualities, Newcastle can't be discounted. The West Ham game was arguably won in midfield with Bruno, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali back to their best levels and that will have to be there again on Sunday.

Bruno reflected: "The Carabao Cup final has been a little bit of a distraction to be honest. A few of us have been thinking about the final. It's massive for the club's history and we want to be part of it.

"We know we will play one of the best teams in the world. But I have confidence in us and I am hopeful we can go to Wembley and get the title."

And Newcastle can now focus firmly on the 90 minutes knowing that they could be a hard working display away from making history. A battling victory like last night at West Ham would see the infamous 70-year domestic trophy drought evaporate into the London skies on Sunday.

Bruno said: "When we play like that, we show the character of the team. We can beat any team in the world.

"We just have to be consistent. We keep the clean sheet, we could score more goals, but the most important thing is the three points tonight."