Steve Bruce makes SURPRISE Manchester United prediction ahead of Newcastle United trip

The Magpies manager made more than 300 appearances for the Red Devils, spending nine years in Manchester between 1987 and 1996.

Few know the club as well as Bruce – and that’s why he’s certain the tide will turn for his former club, sooner rather than later.

“They’re going through a transitional period that’s probably lasted longer than anyone would have thought,” said Bruce ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League encounter.

“There have been three or four people trying to follow Sir Alex (Ferguson) and what he achieved. But make no mistake, they’ve still got some very good young players and it’s only a matter of time before they’re pushing in the right away again.”

Of Manchester United’s weekend loss to bottom of the pile Watford, Bruce said: “That’s how hard this Premier League is. Man United weren’t at their best in the first half probably, but Watford were excellent. Whatever team you play against, and especially when you go to Man U. You’ve got to be at your best. But let’s go and enjoy it.”

Controversial Frenchman Paul Pogba made a first-team return in that loss.

On the topic, Bruce said: “I don’t think any of us would argue against him (Pogba) being a top player, no one wants to see anyone out for three months, he came back and looked like he’d been away for there minutes, I’d expect him to play.”