Robbie Savage has claimed that he does not understand the negativity shown by Newcastle United fans towards new manager Steve Bruce.
The 58-year-old took the reins at St. James’ Park after the departure of Rafa Benitez earlier this summer, but his appointment has not been met with with universal approval.
And Savage has expressed his confusion at that outlook from the fanbase.
Writing in a piece for the Mirror, he said: “I wish my old boss Steve Bruce nothing but good luck in a job that means the world to him.
“I don’t understand the negativity towards Bruce before a ball has been kicked, and although it won’t be plain sailing for him, Newcastle have enough quality to stay up.
“Andy Carroll’s homecoming on a free transfer could be an inspired signing if he stays fit.”
OPINION
Surely Savage must see why Newcastle fans aren’t too happy about the appointment of Bruce? It’s nothing personal against the manager, but the Toon Army have replaced a Champions League winner with a boss who has never won a trophy. Make no mistake, Newcastle won’t be aiming for silverware this season, but at least having Benitez hinted at some kind of ambition. Bruce is a steady enough manager, averaging around 1.6 points per game in each of his last two jobs, as per Transfermarkt, but he is not the kind of manager that will help rebuild a club to their former glories. That is why fans are annoyed, that is why they are convinced he is a yes man for Ashley, and that is why Savage is wide of the mark here. Hopefully, Bruce can prove the doubters wrong, but at the moment, you have to understand why those doubts exist in the first place.
