Newcastle United news: Mike Ashley will stick with Steve Bruce 'no matter what'; Magpies-linked boss eyes Celtic job

Mike Ashley refused to give in to fan pressure demanding the 60-year-old was sacked following the 3-0 defeat at Brighton and Hove Albion last time out.

The Magpies head coach has tasted victory in just two of his last 20 matches, leaving his team two points outside the Premier League relegation zone.

Clark, who manages Sudan giants Al-Merriekh, believes the United owner will stick by Bruce “no matter what”, though did question the former Manchester United defender’s motives for remaining in the job.

"I don't see him getting sacked,” Clark told the Daily Star. “I don't see the club making a change. They've done it before this late and it hasn't worked. I think they're going to stick with Steve Bruce no matter what.

"I think it'll only take a couple of wins from now to the end of the season to make them safe. Hopefully he can do that.

"There are big decisions for the club to make. There are big decisions for Steve to make personally. Does he need this? His health and family are the most important things.

"The decision might be taken out of Steve's hands himself. But it certainly hasn't been a good watch. They haven't performed for many many weeks now."

Eddie Howe ‘seriously interested’ in Celtic job

Former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe had been linked with succeeding Bruce, if he were to be sacked, however reports claim the 43-year-old has set his sights on the Celtic job.

As per The Scottish Sun, Howe has started his own due diligence on the Parkhead club, which has seen him sound out trusted contacts who have connections to Scottish giants.

The same publication reported that former Magpies midfielder Nicky Butt was being considered as a number two by Roy Keane, should he be appointed.

However, now Howe is taking a keen interest in the vacancy as he eyes a return to management for the first time since ending his eight-year spell in charge of the Cherries last August.

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