'Steve Bruce needs replaced' & 'get this season over with' – Newcastle United fan panel give their verdict on Watford loss & manager's selections

Newcastle United's French midfielder Allan Saint-Maximin (C) takes a shot but is off-side during the English Premier League football match between Watford and Newcastle at Vicarage Road Stadium in Watford, north of London on July 11, 2020.

And our fan panel have pointed the finger firmly at manager Steve Bruce for the club’s latest Premier League failing.

Here’s their thoughts after the 2-1 loss...

Dave Black – @cm9798

Thoughts on that one?

“A really disappointing second half where Watford, perhaps understandably, wanted it more. We had no response at all and the substitutes made no impact. Still, we’ve lost to two penalties and shot ourselves in the foot. We just want the season over with and it’s back to wishing for the T word.”

Any individuals’ performances stand out, good or bad?

"You’d have to say Schar failed his audition as a central midfielder. It was a disjointed second half display and nobody has really furthered their appeal today.”

Steve Wraith – @stevewraith

Who was to blame for the loss?

“Rose wasn't at the races. Fernandez seemed to have the flip flops on. Bruce moving Manquillo from right back to left was crazy and taking Ritchie off was nonsensical.Blame for this defeat lies at Bruce’s door today.”

What future does Steve Bruce have?

“Full time and you have to wonder how on earth United can play so well in the first half and play so badly in the second half. Bruce has taken the plaudits for survival and rightly so. Once takeover goes through the new owners need to replace him. If Ashley stays and Bruce stays we will be battling relegation again next year.”

Pete Redding – @dubai_geordie

Anyone stand out for you on the day?

“Very disappointed in that. Too many players went missing. If I had to commend any of them its Dwight Gayle.”

Overall thoughts on the result and performance?

"More questions than answers yet again. Why can't they do it over 90 mins? What does Muto have to do to earn a chance? Poor but typical Newcastle United sadly.”

Graeme Bell – @GraemeBell_NUFC

Do the players or the manager take the blame for this one?

"Pathetic second half showing from NUFC after looking reasonably comfortable at the break. Ritchie unlucky with the first penalty but as soon as that went in, NUFC we’re back on Tyneside it seems. No effort and no fight to get back in the game. Players need to take a look at themselves for that second half showing. Not good enough at all. I’m just glad we’re safe because if we weren’t we’d certainly lack the fight to remain in the league.”

Any positives?

“I thought Rose did OK, made some decent interceptions and tackles. But nothing particularly impressive from anyone.”