Newcastle fans protest outside St. James’ Park with clear Mike Ashley message
Newcastle fans have made their feelings towards Steve Bruce and Mike Ashley clear with a post-match protest outside St. James' Park following the 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa.
Despite the match being played behind closed doors, in the Midlands, disgruntled Magpies fans hung banners outside their home ground on Saturday evening.
Newcastle United supporters group 'Wor Flags' unveiled a flag reading: "Act Late. Seal Your Fate."
The message is in reference to 2009 and 2016, where the north east outfit fell into the second tier of English football.
Pictures of Mike Ashley and Steve Bruce were also included on the banner, as the former battles to save his job on Tyneside following a dismal run of form.
When asked about the protest outside Newcastle's home ground, Bruce told reporters: "I am disappointed to hear that."
The former Aston Villa and Sunderland boss watched his side slump to a 2-0 defeat at Villa Park, extending their winless run to 10 games in all competitions.
Newcastle have only scored one goal in their last eight games.
Bruce added: "We have been on a difficult run but we aren't alone. It is our turn and how we handle it and how we turn it around.
"We have been stuck on 19 points for a while now, so the quicker we get the win, the better.
"We need to win a couple of games and that's what we are trying to do.
"I know this group of players are capable but we have had a tough time of it with illness and injuries and if we can stay fit and healthy I am confident we will be okay."
Bruce is expected to be joined by Bournemouth assistant boss Graeme Jones, a lifelong Newcastle fan, in the coming days.
Jones has reportedly been given permission to leave the Cherries to join Bruce's backroom staff.
However, the Toon boss refused to comment on the rumours when pressed on Sky Sports at full-time last night.
Rafa Benitez is the bookmakers' favourite to replace Bruce after leaving Chinese side Dalian Yifang on Saturday.
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