Steve Bruce could be given until December to turn things around at Newcastle United.
That’s according to The Chronicle’s chief writer, Lee Ryder, who claims that Mike Ashley could well stick with the 58-year-old until the end of the year.
Bruce has endured a tough start to life as Magpies boss, losing both of his two games in charge against Arsenal and Norwich City.
And when asked about how long Bruce might have left in charge at St James’ Park, Ryder, talking on a Q&A, said:
Well undoubtedly alarm bells would be ringing if that was the situation. But I think it is very early to be talking about that after two games.
I know it could well be three defeats in a row after Sunday but I don’t think there has ever been a desire from Ashley to chop and change managers. Yes, he got rid of Big Sam pretty quickly in 2008 but that was when Ashley was listening (and drinking) with fans on the terraces.
I think if Newcastle’s Premier League place was looking in danger come December/January then that might be different but he’ll get time to turn things round.
But is that too much time?
Read Newcastle verdict
We see the next four league fixtures as crucial games in the Magpies’ season.
Two tricky away trips to Tottenham and Liverpool, on paper, is likely to result in two more losses.
However, home games against Watford and Brighton & Hove Albion are two vital fixtures on Tyneside that could shape the club’s season.
Failing to pick up a first win of the season against either the Hornets or the Seagulls, and Bruce’s time in charge will be in serious jeopardy.
However, two positive results would certainly ease the worries around St James’ Park for the time being and would allow Bruce a bit of breathing space for October.
Bruce hasn’t been the most popular man on Tyneside since his appointment in the summer, so the next four weeks appear to be key in regards to how long his tenure in the dugout will last.
