Steve Bruce’s astonishing ‘sack’ rant fuels flames following ‘unexpected’ Newcastle United reprieve

Under-fire Steve Bruce has taken aim at his critics who says ‘wanted’ to see him sacked at Newcastle United.

Amanda Staveley’s respectful statement, released an hour prior to the head coach’s media briefing, praised Bruce for his conduct during the takeover process - as well as confirming he will take change of the team against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, his 1,000th game as a boss in professional football.

However, Bruce took his turn on the mic to pour fuel on the flames of recent criticism, and take aim at those who have reported he was set to be sacked.

And he did so not once, but twice.

“It hasn’t happened what you all wanted. I hope the heat is all on you,” Bruce said to more than 30 gathered regional and national press via Zoom.

“The information was wrong. You haven’t done your job properly.”

He continued: “I have tried to keep my respect and dignity. And that will remain. it has been difficult, of course. I hope you guys are getting a slap, who ever your source was. I hope you are feeling a bit of heat.”

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Bruce’s astonishing words come after he was given an unexpected reprieve in the post.

Staveley confirming the head coach would remain for Spurs, but hinted change may well come and that Bruce would be ‘the first to know’ in that instance.

His words are unlikely to have gone down well with the new owners, who have called for unity ahead of their first game with the keys this weekend.

“Do your job, do the best you can,” he said of Monday’s meeting with PCP Capital Partners’ Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi.

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“We talked about the team, injuries, the training ground, it was very informal. I was told to carry on until I was told otherwise. And that's what I have done.

“No discussions on me whatsoever. Certain discussions need to be private. It was very informal. They were very good people - it was good to see them, it is a great thing that has happened.

“It is not about me. It is about the club going forward, the team and getting a result.

“I was told on Monday to carry on as normal. No matter what you guys have been saying and writing.

“I don’t need an assurance. Some very good people, sitting in front me, told me to carry on, business as usual.

“I am not going to give up the hold of it - hundreds will want to manage Newcastle United. It is exciting times for the club.

“We need a win and a victory to get us up the table.”

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On the future, Bruce seems keen to fight on.

He said: “I will have a crack. I will try my utmost. Who wouldn't want this opportunity? I will make a fist of it and try my best for the club.

“I know it will be a ridiculous atmosphere, which we are all looking forward to. Whatever they think of me, they want their team to win a game.”