Steve Bruce believes the FA Cup is breathing life into Newcastle United’s season after reaching the fifth round of the competition.
Steve Bruce said “When you look back and put your slippers on the FA Cup final is still a huge moment in this country. It was rekindled for me when I got there as manager of Hull City against Arsenal in 2014 and I vowed that I would never play weakened teams. A club like Newcastle can win five games and get to Wembley. It was a hairy cup tie at Oxford, great for the neutral but awful for myself and the fans. It wouldn’t be Newcastle without a story and if that’s the story let’s go to West Bromwich Albion and carry it on.”
Steve Bruce became the first manager to do so since Glenn Roeder in 2006, and the first boss in the Mike Ashley era to ensure the club’s hopes remain alive in terms of silverware going into March.
Alan Shearer, the club’s all-time record goalscorer, criticized Joelinton, Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron after their goalless draw against Norwich City.
Alan Shearer said “Almiron works hard, never lacks effort, but not enough quality at times. Saint-Maximin shows flashes of brilliance, but doesn’t show it enough, and looks lazy at times also. Joelinton has no confidence whatsoever, and basically never looks like scoring. Fans are entitled to ask and demand more of those three for £80million.”
Steve Bruce did not take stand for his players or criticize Alan Shearer by suggesting the club legend always “say what he sees” – after Newcastle United’s recruitment came under fire.
Steve Bruce said “I’ve known Alan for a long time, and class him as a friend now. However, he has to say what he sees, and that’s never going to change with Alan. He was here, and that was good for the supporters.”