Steve Bruce responds to question asking if he will be Newcastle United head coach next season

Eleven points from a possible 18 since the March international break has lifted the Magpies 12 points above the Premier League relegation zone – and their survival could be mathematically confirmed tonight if Fulham lose to Burnley.

It’s a big turnaround from Bruce, who came under intense calls to be sacked after a 3-0 defeat at Brighton and Hove Albion left the club two points off the bottom three.

However, despite the upturn in form, some supporters remain unconvinced by Bruce, prompting speculation over whether he will remain in charge next season.

“That’s for others to decide,” Bruce said, when asked by talkSPORT’s Jim White if he’d be at St James’s Park beyond the current campaign.

"There are big discussions to be had. Most clubs review the season and what’s happened.

"I’m a football person and I’m still too early to retire yet but all those conversations will happen over the next couple of weeks.”

Meanwhile, Bruce has explained why he chose not to resign on the back of a run that included two wins in 20 matches.

He said: “I thought the easy thing would be to say I am not enjoying this anymore and I will walk away.

"That has never been me. I wanted to batten down the hatches and make sure Newcastle are safe this season.

"The most important for me is the club and I have been working tirelessly and embroiled in keeping the club in the division."

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