Steve Bruce has said that the criticism he has received as Newcastle manager is due in part to 'certain journalists' and unrealistic expectations from the fans.
Bruce spoke to TalkSport about his experience as Newcastle manager.
Steve Bruce
“The vast majority of people you speak to on the street are wishing me the best of luck and telling me to take no notice of the rubbish," Bruce said.
“It has been very difficult and certain journalists didn’t want me there from day one. I was never going to be good enough.
“That’s fair enough and that’s his opinion and you have to respect that. But when it is built on the whole thing, come on just be a bit balanced.
“You have to accept criticism, it is part and parcel of it, but I think at times it has been unjust.
“I have always said to try and judge me when I have a fit squad.
“Here is the big thing. Newcastle in the last 14/15 years have been in the bottom half of the Premier League. We would all love to see Newcastle United being back to signing the Alan Shearers of this world for world record fees but that just isn’t going to happen.
“It is difficult managing the expectation which obviously is still there.”
Saudi takeover
Bruce also addressed the issue of the failed Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
“We were all disappointed and no more so than Mike [Ashley]," Bruce said.
“We were selling to the Saudi people that would generate the income of the likes of Man City so what supporter wouldn’t like to see that?
“Until that happens I will do the best I possibly can for the club. It is no secret Mike wants to sell the club and for everybody that is the best thing."
One of the bright spots of a turbulent season for Bruce has been Joe Willock, on loan from Arsenal, who has scored four goals.
Bruce wants to make it a permanent deal.
“I think we would all love to make it (permanent). He has five goals since the turn of the year but we have to respect he is Arsenal’s player.
“If there is a possibility of bringing him back I would love to do it.”
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