Everything Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce revealed ahead of Bournemouth – including Ritchie, targets & strength in depth
And here’s EVERYTHING Steve Bruce has said ahead of the encounter – including a significant injury update on Matt Ritchie.
1. Matt Ritchie setback
"Matt was going along so well, he has had a bit of reaction to training. He was going along nicely, when it is pretty serious after being operated on, but we thought he was back ten days ago, but in training he has pulled up in training." Photo: Ian MacNicol
2. Too soon for Florian Lejeune
"Lejeune has come through, this weekend is a bit soon, but we need to get some minutes into him. He played 70 minutes the other night and he is chomping at the bit." Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
3. Strength in depth
"We have six (central defender) if I count Paul Dummett. It is no surprise Ciaran (Clark) has played so well. Fede (Fernandez) is an Argentine international, played at the highest level. It is difficult to manage six of them but we are pleased in that respect." Photo: Alex Pantling
4. Defender goals
"I always prided myself in scoring goals. I was disappointed if I didn’t get six or eight in a season. Some of these layers weren’t born when I was laying so it does become difficult to remind people let me assure you!" Photo: Jan Kruger