Bruno Guimarães' programme notes: Lascelles tribute, fitness update and Brentford preview

Today I’d like to speak about Jamaal Lascelles, who left the club this week to join Leicester City after 12 years at St. James’ Park. What a journey! He’s a top player and a top guy and the whole club will miss him.

I remember when I first arrived at the club, he was so kind and tried to help me when I couldn’t speak English. At first, I thought he looks like a tough guy! And then I talked to him, and he’s a very good guy. I enjoyed my time with him, on the pitch he was so aggressive at set pieces, corners.

In the meetings we had as a Leadership Group, he was always active, always trying to help, even if he wasn’t playing. He was trying to figure out ways to help the other players out.

For me, when I’m not playing, it can be tough to act the same way as when I’m playing. But Jamaal was always there for us in a positive way. I learned a lot from him as I joined the Leadership Group – his positivity, always trying to help each other, developing players and people.

I wish him all the best at Leicester. We’re all proud of him, and I think he’s happy too. He’s going to be missed around the place.

Before I look to today’s game, I’ve been working hard to get back on the pitch. I’m feeling better, getting better and hopefully I can be out there as soon as possible. It’s been around two weeks without playing and I can’t wait to get back.

Every day and moment, I want to get back on the pitch. My life is not the same when I’m not playing, it’s like some part of my body is not in the right position – so I’m missing playing a lot and I’m doing everything I can to be back with you.

Today is a really important game for us, even more with the run of away games we are in at the moment. We know Brentford are a very good team, they showed it in the last game when they beat Aston Villa away from home.

So we have to be aware of that and try to play our game and make them feel uncomfortable in our home.

Of course, let’s make an unbelievable atmosphere at St. James’ Park, and get three important points.

Bruno Guimarães.