The new Newcastle United manager has played down fan protests ahead of the coming season.
The morale of Newcastle supporters is at a real low right now. Some are unhappy with the circumstances surrounding Rafa Benitez’s exit and Bruce’s appointment.
The blame is being squarely laid at the feet of owner Mike Ashley and some supporters’ groups even attempting to organise a boycott of the club’s opening Premier League fixture at St James’ Park against Arsenal on August 11th.
Bruce though feels that when the action kicks off he and his team will have the full support of the fans.
As quoted by The Mirror, the new Newcastle boss said: “It can be blown out of proportion. I saw a demo the other day with 12 people in it. I am convinced, first game, they will be behind us.
“I know I am not everyone’s cup of tea, but I have done OK last 20 years and my experience will be important. I could have turned it down and not had a go.”
Also defending against a reputation of being a football “dinosaur”, Bruce is clearly standing his ground in the face of any negativity heading his way in pre-season.
He’ll be more aware than anyone he has to win over supporters though. He’ll also know the only way to do that is by picking up consistent results in the league and progressing through cup rounds.
Right now though, fans seem pretty assertive in displaying their unease with the direction the club is heading in and you can’t help but wonder if Bruce has underestimated the strength of feeling out there.
How the potential boycott plays out remains to be seen, but senior figures at Newcastle should be taking this situation seriously and trying to find common ground or potential solutions, rather than playing it all down.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
