Marcelo Bielsa's eight-word response to a question on Newcastle United and Steve Bruce

Leeds United's hugely-experienced manager was asked about the job Steve Bruce is doing at 12th-placed Newcastle United – and his team’s main threats – ahead of the Premier League game.

Bielsa’s response was short – and to the point. The 65-year-old said: “Very positive and the quality of their forwards.”

However, Bielsa was more forthcoming on 14th-placed Leeds’ form. He said: “The reality that we have only picked up four points from the last 18 (and it) is a negative cycle that, of course, generates consequences. This negative cycle that we’re going through is similar to half of the other teams in the Premier League who have gone through a similar cycle.

"We know that every time we play the difficulty is very high, and we try to grow so that we can pick up as many points as possible.”

Bielsa had named his team before the weekend’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham United at Elland Road.

"From now on, to avoid any backlash, I will not continue to give answers on the players who can or cannot play on the weekend,” said Bielsea. “For me to name the team ahead of time is something I shouldn’t do.”

Bielsa, however, confirmed that striker Patrick Bamford – who has scored eight Premier League goals so far this season – was available for the Newcastle game.

Meanwhile, Bruce will give his pre-match press conference tomorrow. Defender Federico Fernandez is back in training after recovering from Covid-19.