Steve Bruce reacts to Mike Ashley's surprise appearance at St James's Park

Ashley, the club’s owner, was at St James’s Park for tonight’s 4-1 replay win over Rochdale.

Bruce will discuss this month’s transfer window with Ashley during his stay on Tyneside.

Asked when he would speak to Ashley, a coy Bruce said: “Hopefully sometime. Nothing planned just yet. I’m sure you’ll find out when and where it is. He’s here for a day or two, so year, we’ll meet up.”

Fans chanted “Brucey, give us a wave” during the game. Bruce said: “Results will always help us. We’ve still got a lot to do. We’ve had a tough three or four weeks with the injuries and results. We’ll hopefully have a few back. When we have a few back, we’ll be OK.”