STEVE BRUCE has reportedly emerged as a contender to replace Rafa Benitez at Newcastle – despite previously managing bitter rivals Sunderland. Toon owner Mike Ashley is on the hunt for a new boss after Benitez left the club at the end of his contract. And, according to Sky Sports, Sheffield Wednesday’s Steve Bruce is one […]
STEVE BRUCE has reportedly emerged as a contender to replace Rafa Benitez at Newcastle – despite previously managing bitter rivals Sunderland.
Toon owner Mike Ashley is on the hunt for a new boss after Benitez left the club at the end of his contract.
And, according to Sky Sports, Sheffield Wednesday’s Steve Bruce is one of the key names being considered.
Bruce only took the reins at Wednesday in January but may be tempted by a return to the Premier League, and the north-east.
The 58-year-old was born in Northumberland and was a boyhood Newcastle fan.
But his time in charge of Sunderland between 2009 and 2011 could prove a difficult obstacle for Ashley.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City assistant Mikel Arteta is also under consideration for the job.
Aston Villa assistant coach John Terry is said to be a contender but Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has rubbished the possibility of a move.
Rangers boss Gerrard told the Daily Record: “Fake news. Not that I’m aware of.”
Steve Bruce – 13/8
Mikel Arteta – 6/1
John Terry – 15/2
Jose Mourinho – 14/1
Giovanni van Bronkhorst – 18/1
Quique Sanchez Flores – 20/1
Roberto Martinez – 25/1
David Moyes – 25/1
Michael O’Neill – 25/1
Sam Allardyce – 33/1
Benitez, meanwhile, opted for a move to the Chinese Super League after leaving St. James’ Park.
The Spanish coach took charge at Dalian Yifang and has already claimed his first win as boss.
Dalian Yifang beat Super League rivals Henan Jianye 3-1 on Sunday with Emmanuel Boateng and Yannick Carrasco striking for Benitez’s side.
