Pressure began to build on Bruce last term when his side won just twice in 21 matches between December and April and as a result fell deep into relegation trouble.
They did drag themselves clear in the latter stages of the campaign, but anti-Bruce sentiments have prevailed in some quarters, with frustration also directed at Mike Ashley and the Premier League amid the ongoing takeover saga.
Recently, a report from the Daily Star claimed Bruce was set to be handed a new three-year contract by Mike Ashley.
Reacting to those rumours, pundit Paddy Kenny insists Bruce has “had it tough” on Tyneside but has done “amazing”.
Kenny told Football Insider: "It’s a strange one because he’s trying to get the sale of the club through.
“Unless the owners want to keep Bruce as well, that could be one explanation.
“For me, Bruce has had it tough at Newcastle. They have had so many injuries.
“You could see that when they got their squad together later in the season, they started to get results and go further up the table.
“Personally, I think he’s done an amazing job at Newcastle. He got some great results.
“I don’t know why the fans are furious. I know they don’t want Ashley there but I think Bruce has done a good job with the cards he’s been dealt.”
We’ve gathered the best of today’s Premier League transfer speculation below…
1. Stoke win Ostigard race
Stoke City have won the race to sign Leo Ostigard on loan from Brighton with the defender having a medical at the Potters on Monday. Fulham, Middlesbrough, and Sheffield United were also linked. (Football League World) (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Photo: George Wood
2. Christie future discussed
Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has voiced his hope of Ryan Christie rejecting Crystal Palace and Burnley and signing a new contract with the club, but has admitted that the decision ultimately rests with the player. (Daily Record) (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
3. Blackburn keen on Khadra
Blackburn Rovers are optimistic on making their first signing of the summer with the addition of Brighton attacker Reda Khadra. (Lancs Live) (Photo by CLIVE BRUNSKILL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: CLIVE BRUNSKILL
4. Burnley in for Gomes?
Burnley could be on the brink of signing Brazilian winger Arthur Gomes from Santos, according to a number of local sources. (Sport Witness) (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: MAURO PIMENTEL