Steve Bruce hits out at Newcastle United "conspiracy theories"

Steve Bruce has hit back at “conspiracy theories” about the arrival of new coach Graeme Jones – and insists he is not a “threat” to his job.

The Newcastle head coach agreed to Jones coming in to bolster his backroom staff last week.

But Bruce has been undermined by claims the ex-Belgium, Bournemouth and Everton No2 is the manager is waiting if owner Mike Ashley wields the axe.

Fans were also baffled as to why Jones was sitting in the stands at the start of the defeat to Crystal Palace on Tuesday – suggesting he'd be banished there because he'd taken lots of the credit for the win at Everton.

Asked if experienced tactician Jones was a threat, Bruce replied: “No, I have had this thrown at me. It has been talked about weeks ago, about bringing in someone extra. He was mine, MY, first choice. All these conspiracy theories I wish I could put them to bed.

“Against Crystal Palace Graeme wanted to have a look at first 10-15 minutes, up a height, in the stands, then he came down and was in the dug out like he was against Everton. I was surprised (at the fuss).”

Newcastle face Southampton with Allan Saint Maximin confirmed as fit enough to start the game – his first since he suffered coronavirus two months ago.

New loan signing Joe Willock from Arsenal will also “be involved.”

But local lads Sean and Matty Longstaff have been warned they have to raise their game to earn a shot at the first team again.

Sean, allegedly a £50m Man U target a year ago, has been axed from the first team squad by Bruce after inconsistent form.

Bruce said: “We have had too many disappointing performances as a team which has led to different changes. Play well and the team picks itself. After Everton the team stayed the same. They (the Longstaffs) have to roll up their sleeves and be prepared for competition for places which is only natural.

“Sean?I won't comment on individuals. Sean and Matty get highlighted because they are Newcastle lads. He has gone up and down quickly and has to find that consistency. He is only a young lad. It happened for him quickly.”

Willock will be on the bench and Bruce said: “He wil bring something different. He wants to get forward and score a goal, that is in his locker.

“He gets up and down the pitch He is young enthusiastic and gives us a youthfulness we need.

He is different. We are a bit samey. We are delighted to get him. He wil bring a freshness to midfield.”

Bruce has an defensive injury crisis with Jamal Lascelles, Federico Fernandez and Paul Dummett all out, and Jamal Lewis is a doubt with a hamstring strain. Ciaran Clark's wife is in labour and he has missed training.

Source: Read Full Article