Just a few weeks on from his war of words with Dwight Gayle, the Steve Bruce bashing continues; this time via another former Newcastle United number nine!

A bitter Bruce hit back at comments from Gayle that involved criticism of the training ground culture and lack of tactical acumen under the former Newcastle boss during their time together on Tyneside.

Another ex-Mag has publicly voiced his disdain for decisions made by Bruce during his time in charge, directly mentioning a member of our current squad who was (somehow) out of favour under the current Blackpool manager.

Carroll still baffled by Bruce

Andy Carroll has publicly stated his disbelief that Fabian Schar was benched by Bruce in 2021/22 on the Instagram page of the Swiss defender, who remained tight-lipped in the comments.

Schar took to his social media after the Leicester game – where he was inches away from netting a Puskas Award contender with his 55-yard-lob – to share some photos from the game and reference his sensational assist.

“On a plate for you, @JacobMurphy95,” read the caption – and a glance to the comment section saw a comment from local lad Andy Carroll that reminded things weren’t always so easy for Schar at Newcastle.

“And Brucey benched you 🫣!” wrote Andy Carroll. Crazy to even think about considering the talent we had on offer at the time and Schar’s clear ability. The Swiss defender replied with nothing but…🤐

Benched for nine of our first 11 games at the start of the 2021/22 season, Bruce opted to play the likes of Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles and even Isaac Hayden at centre-back instead over that period just a few months before the takeover. 

Several careers saved by Howe

One of several careers handed a lifeline by Eddie Howe and his coaching staff since they joined the coaching staff following Bruce’s timely departure.

Joelinton and Jacob Murphy along with Schar have been handed total career renaissance and became regulars in the first team. The development of the players within the squad have been like new signings by themselves.

Our fortunes have changed but Howe’s ability to get the best out of players is on a different level, and it’s made the journey even sweeter to have had some of the original squad come along for the ride.