Carlo Ancelotti's verdict on Newcastle United – and criticism of Steve Bruce

And Everton’s manager spoke about the criticism Steve Bruce has faced at Newcastle United after his side’s 2-1 defeat at St James’s Park yesterday.

Bruce – who has switched to a more defensive, counter-attacking style after last month’s 4-1 defeat to Manchester United – spoke about his online critics before the behind-closed-doors game, which was decided by two goals from summer signing Callum Wilson.

“Steve has the same experience as me,” said Ancelotti, who had studied Newcastle’s hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux the previous weekend. “A manager is used to being criticised.

"Newcastle are a good team. They played the same as they did against Wolves, with the same style, the same identity, defensively strong, and tried to do a counter-attack. I think the performance was good.”

Wilson gave United the lead from the penalty spot, and added another late in the game after a quick break forward. Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored a late consolation for Everton, who had been second in the Premier League after a strong start to the season.

“The game changed when we gave them a penalty, and after that, the game was difficult and complicated,” said Ancelotti.

“We had a good reaction, but it was not good enough. After the first goal, the game is completely changed. It was exactly the same as what happened last week against Southampton.”

Newcastle take on Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium on Friday night.

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