It is “debatable” whether Steve Bruce will travel to China with Newcastle United at the weekend, even if he is confirmed as manager on Tyneside, according to Chronicle journalist Lee Ryder.
The Sheffield Wednesday is being heavily linked with a move to St. James’ Park, as reported by the Telegraph, but may not travel to compete in the Premier League Asian Trophy preseason tournament regardless of any announcement on his future.
Writing on his personal Twitter account, Ryder said: “Steve Bruce discussions with Newcastle have been ongoing today.
“A compensation package has been the hitch but barring any major disagreements on that, Bruce should be unveiled as new Toon boss.
“Whether he departs with the squad for China at the weekend also debatable.”
OPINION
This is a bit of a strange one to be honest. Yes, it would be very short notice if Bruce were to be announced as Newcastle manager ahead of the trip to China, but given the state of things at St. James’ Park, the Magpies aren’t exactly blessed with a lot of time to work with. Surely, the sooner Bruce can get himself in and amongst the action on Tyneside, the sooner he can begin to prepare for the new league season. That is ultimately what the Magpies need right now, organisation, and it feels like a very risky strategy for Bruce to wait around for his players to return, should he get the job. Perhaps there is an argument that he wouldn’t be able to employ anything tactically anyway, but even if that is true, surely there is some merit from a morale perspective to him travelling out with his new squad.
