Steve Bruce addresses his relationship with Newcastle United's players – and Jamie Carragher's analysis

Bruce’s relationship with his squad was brought into sharp focus this week by a training ground row with Matt Ritchie.

United’s head coach clashed with Ritchie in the wake of comments he made following a breakdown in communication during last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’s Park.

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher detailed what he felt went wrong for the visiting team’s equaliser on Monday Night Football.

Bruce addressed his relationship with the relegation-threatened club’s squad when he was asked about Carragher’s analysis.

“I didn’t see Jamie’s analysis, and i think the consequences of those events have been played out before, and I don’t really want to comment,” said Bruce, who insisted in January that he hadn’t lost the dressing room.

“I made a comment at the time that upset Matt, and (it led to) the well-publicised row and bust-up. He apologised to me, my staff, and he did it in front of all the players. As far as I’m concerned, it’s done and it’s dusted. We move on.

"I have 100% faith in the players, and I’m convinced they have the same for me and my staff. I’m convinced with the group of players we have we will get out of the trouble we are in.”

Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, Bruce added: "I think the relationship I've got with the players is as good as it always can be. It's vitally important we stay together. I've got every confidence in them – as I hope they have in me.”

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