Newcastle United’s former boss Steve Bruce was watching on at Old Trafford as Magpies splutter against fallen Man United team
Newcastle United look like they are stumbling over the finish line in the Premier League’s race for Europe.
If there was one positive to emerge from the defeat at Man United last night it must surely be that Eddie Howe’s team will be fired up to get it right at Brentford and give it one last push on the final day. Regardless of European permutations, Howe’s team can at least secure seventh place in the top-flight and go into another week knowing their hopes of getting into the Europa Conference League will still be alive.
After the loss against Man United though Howe knows his team must improve and quickly after things imploded against the Red Devils.
Much was made about the manner of the Magpies’ defending as Kobbie Mainoo had the freedom of Old Trafford to take a touch and slot Man United ahead last night. Bruce was on punditry duty with beIN Sports and highlighted the way Newcastle’s centre-backs stepped out of the box to allow the youngster to score, while Kieran Trippier’s position was also spoken about.
Bruce, working as a pundit for beIN Sports, said: “I expected it to be a little bit open because of the defensive problems both teams have got. Unfortunately for Kieran Trippier his concentration levels weren’t up with the rest of the team. I also think the two central defenders left the area very quickly too which left them a little bit exposed.”
The former Man United legend and Toon boss spoke about the demands for success at Newcastle and how he could see the Magpies rising again.
Bruce said: “This is what Newcastle want. They want to be on the big stage against the big boys and competing for Europe. That’s what they demand and that is what the demand has been. Of course, 20 years ago they are buying world record players like Alan Shearer to try to bridge that gap.
“Now they are on the rise again, they have been in the Champions League and are now fighting for Europe. They are on the rise again, that is pretty obvious for everybody.
The big favour now needed from Pep Guardiola and Man City as history repeats itself
Newcastle could well need a favour from Man City on FA Cup final day. First, Eddie Howe’s team must at least finish in seventh spot but then a nervous wait until the Wembley showpiece must take place.
City will be the favourites to win the cup of course but Erik ten Hag is determined to end the season with silverware and made that clear to his fans after the game on a public address to them at Old Trafford saying: “The season is not over yet, first we travel to Brighton to get three points and then we go to Wembley.
“And I promise you that those players will give everything to win the cup and bring it to Old Trafford.”
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