Jacob Ramsey: Has Bruno Guimarães given the midfielder time to shine?

That night in Paris certainly had great significance last month.

No other Newcastle player won more duels (seven) and fouled (three) than Ramsey, who took the most shots (two) in the 1-1 draw at the Parc des Princes.

He was also ranked among the best visiting players in terms of successful passes (32) and touches in the opposition penalty area (three) against the reigning Champions League champions.

The bold way in which Ramsey claimed the ball, wriggled into tight spaces and lifted his team up the pitch was a reminder of why Newcastle wanted to sign him again in August.

But it will always take time for Ramsey to cement his place in the team’s most crowded area.

Not only did Ramsey not arrive after the start of the season, but he then suffered an ankle injury in his first full game against Leeds United, keeping him out for six weeks.

The midfielder was left playing catch-up as he adapted to the intensity, detail and structure of life under Howe.

Although Villa coach Unai Emery is a demanding figure in his own right, Howe’s grueling training sessions took some getting used to at first.

But there has not been enough of it in recent months due to the rigorous nature of Newcastle’s fixture schedule.

Instead, Ramsey has come to rely on analysis feeds to learn the complexities of his role – having previously played on the left under Emery – and the summer arrival has essentially built an understanding with his team-mates through games.

This ‘conscientious’ individual has impressed Howe with his work behind the scenes, while Ramsey feels Newcastle’s aggressive style of play will bring out the best in his favored position in midfield.

Ramsey has previously pointed out how many players have improved under Howe after he sat down with those close to him last summer to assess which players offered him the best chance of one day making the England squad.

The wait continues for a first-team call-up, but Howe hopes Ramsey’s first goal for the club will mark a “turning point” in his Newcastle career as his side now prepare to face Qarabag for a place in the Champions League last 16.

“There is nothing better than actually contributing and helping your team win the game,” he added.

“There is no better way to feel part of the Newcastle family than this.”