Steve Bruce’s managerial ability has been described as ‘not bang average’ by fellow Premier League manager and ‘friend’ Chris Wilder.
In the build-up to their upcoming match on Thursday night at Bramall Lane, Wilder spoke to the press about a number of things, including the relationship he has with the Magpies manager.
He said during a press conference (via Evening Express): “I know Steve and I know him well and even though I count him as a friend in football, on Thursday there’s a big result to be had by both clubs.”
“He’s an experienced manager and to work in the Premier League for the length of time that he has is a testament to what he’s about from a tactical and man-management point of view.”
As well as discussing the friendship that the two have, the Blades boss went onto say that Bruce possesses the character to deal with the job at hand, and also said how the fact he is managing at this level is proof that he is not a poor coach.
“You don’t get given jobs in the Premier League if you’re bang average”, he added.
“Steve’s not bang average as a manager or as a person, so yes, I speak to him quite regularly and I’m certainly not surprised by the job he’s doing at Newcastle.
“It’s a big, big job. They’re a huge football club and one that needs a big personality and they’ve certainly got that in Steve.”
It’s hardly the easiest thing to know what qualifies as a ‘bang average’ manager, but considering the amount of Premier League games Bruce has notched up, it’s probably a fair statement – even if many fans aren’t particularly happy with the brand of football that he brings.
In the history of the Premier League, Bruce has the seventh-highest amount of games managed under his belt (BBC), therefore, there must be a reason why big clubs keep coming in for him.
Should Newcastle have appointed Steve Bruce?
Yes
No
Could there be a better coach at the club than Bruce? That’s a different question; a question which is quite futile at this early stage in his spell. What matters is staying in the Premier League, and currently United are four points clear of Southampton in 18th.
Bruce has had a lot of adversity to overcome, and while he has been able to spend over £60m in the summer, he deserves a bit more time before questions are asked about who else.