Newcastle United have had a planned day off cancelled by manager Steve Bruce after they suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of newly promoted Norwich City, according to the Chronicle.
The Magpies fell victim to a Teemu Pukki hat trick at Carrow Road, and in response, it is understood that the boss has ordered an extra day of training.
Rather than taking a day off on Sunday. as scheduled, the Toon Army will be expected to report to training on Sunday at Benton.
OPINION
You have to wonder whether or not this is a good idea. On the one hand, Newcastle were absolutely abysmal against Norwich, and they need all the help they can get when it comes to preparing for their next match. On the other, cracking the whip like this can sometimes do more harm than good. Players can be fickle, and if Bruce starts coming across as all authoritarian, he risks unsettling talents who will already be kicking themselves after such a poor result. In short, Bruce is walking a tightrope, and he has to be cautious about when to push and when to back off. His job security will already have taken a significant blow after Saturday’s defeat, and the last thing be will want, or can afford, is a revolt on his hands in the dressing room. If his team go out and beat Tottenham next weekend then wonderful, but at the moment, that looks increasingly improbable.
