Bruce says Newcastle star played with injury last night, and was outstanding

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Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has revealed to the Northern Echo that Emil Krafth played on with injury last night.

Krafth was drafted into Newcastle’s starting line-up at centre-back, such is the volume of injuries the Magpies have suffered of late.

There were concerns about how the Swede would cope, but he helped Newcastle pick up a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion.

And Bruce says that Krafth impressed him, especially as he was carrying a knock through the contest.

“We played two full-backs as centre-backs today (Emil Krafth and Danny Rose), and they were terrific. I was delighted with their attitude,” Bruce said.

“Emil’s got a really sore ankle, and did well to carry on, but I think he epitomised the spirit of all them. It was important we put a point on the board. It means Brighton can’t be above us, and that’s important to me.”

Krafth has only played a rotational role at Newcastle so far this term after signing in the summer.

The 25-year-old is most comfortable playing on the right-hand side of defence, but Javier Manquillo appears to be Newcastle’s first choice in that slot currently.

Newcastle’s draw with Brighton yesterday has kept them in 13th place in the Premier League table, with their final game of the season coming on Sunday against champions Liverpool.