The 'other side' to Steve Bruce: This is what it's like to play for Newcastle United's head coach

Fernandez scored the club’s winner against Southampton at St James’s Park last weekend.

Newcastle are 11th in the Premier League ahead of Saturday’s game against Burnley at Turf Moor, and Fernandez – who is set for talks over his future at St James’s Park – has spoken about the mood behind the scenes.

Asked what it was like to play for United's head coach, the defender said: “He’s a really fun guy. In training, we’ve worked very hard since the first day. He wants the team to run a lot, work hard. But, the other side – he’s fun. In training we have a great time with him.”

Fernandez, 30, is playing with a smile on his face. He said: “It’s a great club with great fans – we need to enjoy it. It’s a good moment, and football’s about moments you need to enjoy.”