As ever, plenty was on the agenda at the 58-year-old’s media briefing, speaking in-depth about the Magpies front three, his time in the job so far and assessing the once daunting trip to Old Trafford. Scroll down and click through our gallery to see what Bruce had to say with the Premier League returning over the festive period:
5. Bruce hails team spirit
“I can’t fault their attitude and spirit. We set them up but they’ve got to show they’re resolute, difficult to play against and difficult to beat. They’re a good group. If they stay like that they deserve the rewards they’re getting at the moment. We’ve got to be very pleased over the last few months." Photo: Ian MacNicol
6. It was great to see Florian Lejeune back
“I hate to mention individuals, but Flo for example, playing his first game after what he’s come through, the mental side of coming back from a second cruciate and he played the game on Saturday like he’s never been away. He came in and looked terrific." Photo: Ian MacNicol
7. What about the strength in depth at the back?
“We’ve got six centre-backs if you include Dummett and all of them have played their part. We’ve been without five or six or seven but it’s a big testament to the squad that we’ve been through the injury problems and kept on finding a result." Photo: Mark Runnacles
8. Bruce on unique Newcastle fans
“Our supporters will always back the team – they always have done – and that’s what makes it unique. We’ve got Manchester United, Everton and Leicester – a hard, hard week lies upon us… but that’s the beauty of the Premier League.” Photo: Mark Runnacles