Steve Bruce drops tactical hint at Newcastle United

Instead, this was centred around Miguel Almiron, whose agent this week gave an explosive interview on a Paraguyan radio station.

Newcastle United’s head coach didn’t hold back when asked about Daniel Campos’ comments. Campos had claimed that Almiron would have left the club already had it not been for the coronavirus pandemic – and suggested that the midfielder would leave the club next year.

"The agent proves to me he’s an amateur who’s looking to make a fast buck again, which is pretty ridiculous,” said Bruce.

Bruce – who wouldn’t be drawn on the club’s takeover legal action against the Premier League – was also diplomatic when asked about former manager Rafa Benitez’s comments this week about a future return to Newcastle.

The focus today is back on his team, which was beaten 2-0 by Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium before the international break.

A repeat of that performance is unthinkable, and Bruce has had a few decisions to make. Is Almiron fresh enough to start? Should Jeff Hendrick keep his place? Is it a risk to play Callum Wilson?

Fans, however, shouldn’t expect big changes in tactics and personnel against Chelsea

"We don't have to rip anything up at all,” said Bruce. “We just have to play better – it's as simple as that. No matter what formation and how you set up, you have to have a fundamental thing – and get hold of the ball and pass it to each other when you've got it.”

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