Jonathan Woodgate predicts managerial developments at Newcastle in next 48 hours

Mon 18 October 2021 9:45, UK

that he expects movement to be made on the future of Newcastle boss Steve Bruce in the next 48 hours.

The new owners watched on as Newcastle suffered defeat to Tottenham on Sunday, despite going 1-0 up through Callum Wilson’s header.

Goals from Harry Kane, Tanguy Ndombele and Son Heung-min won the game – despite a bizarre Eric Dier own goal late in the match.

Steve Bruce remains in charge, his name remains above the manager’s door. But he is growing closer to an exit, with the owners holding a review.

Amanda Staveley only confirmed that Bruce would manage Newcastle against Spurs. Now, we have re-entered the unknown this week.

Woodgate, who played for both Newcastle and Spurs, reckons there could be a change in management in the next 48 hours – or at least a decision.

“You can’t read what they’re going to do, the press we’re saying he was getting sacked as soon as he came in – who knows what they’re going to do.

“They’re obviously going through procedure, and they’re looking at new managers. I think in the next 48 hours, something will happen.”

Woodgate on Bruce: Newcastle surely have to make change

Woodgate, a manager himself after spells in charge of Bournemouth and Middlesbrough, feels Bruce deserves a chance to stay on Tyneside.

Bruce is a well-liked figure aside from the Newcastle fanbase. He was placed in a near-impossible job, having to side with Mike Ashley.

Following Rafa Benitez, it was going to be hard for any manager – especially an underwhelming appointment such as Bruce. He has done what he can.

Fans will point towards a poor style of play. But the fact is, Newcastle have a Championship-quality squad – apart from a couple of standout players.

They have to play defensively and hope Wilson, Allan Saint-Maximin or Joe Willock produce a moment of magic. On Sunday, they did not.