Mike Ashley needs to go, but this wasted season is Steve Bruce’s fault

Newcastle United just barely have their head above the deep relegation waters, but they should have never been in this situation to begin with. The business conducted by the front office this summer deserves a rare moment of praise, but clueless Steve Bruce does not know how to utilize the talent at his disposal.

A team composed of the same back line that was considered the best outside the top six under Rafa Benitez, and the addition of a lethal finisher and dynamic wingers, and we are 17th?

Bruce should never have been hired in the first place. Mike Ashley and his “yes” men needed to provide Benitez with the same financial support they offered this dinosaur of a “manager”.

Had they done that this team could have solidified their place among the top ten, especially with the bottom half of the table being as weak as it is. Could have, would have, should have, I know.

The red flags surrounding Bruce were there for all to see.

Yes, Newcastle United have looked much better in recent weeks with their attacking style of play – except their last game against Chelsea – but it took an assistant coach from the Championship to transform this team and save the season.

That alone goes to show that Bruce does not belong in the Premier League. 13 defeats in 24 games with this team? 40 goals conceded? Only four points from one of the weakest bottom threes in league history?

Sixth-lowest scoring tally in the league with the firepower we have in the final third? Third-worst clean sheet record (four) in the top flight? Embarrassed by a Championship outfit in the EFL Cup?

A nine-game winless streak? The use of over ten different formations? The list of narratives and statistics surrounding this club goes on and on.

Eventually every manager adjusts and identifies his best team, and implements a style of play that fits the skillsets of his players. Not Bruce. There are 14 games left to save this season, but Bruce’s outdated tactics and disorganized planning will certainly see key players seek exits this summer.

Not only did Bruce waste the season for the passionate Toon Army, but he also placed a low ceiling for some players who are eager to reach new heights in their career. Bruce must go. #BruceOut… along with Mike Ashley and Lee Charnley.