Fears of a repeat from the defeat to Derby County during the 2007/08 season came true after Billy Sharp’s 73rd-minute penalty decider.
Indeed, it was the Blades’ first three points of the Premier League season at the 18th attempt and in the process, just their ninth goal.
Bruce’s side are now without a win in their previous eight games, which has also been compounded by two cup exits at the hands of Brentford and Arsenal.
Frustration in the United fanbase has been rising and now it seems it has finally peaked with the club eight points above the relegation places with 21 games left to play.
View our gallery to see how the 60-year-old ranks in the Premier League sack race, i.e the next manager to be relieved of his duties:
. Newcastle United's English head coach Steve Bruce gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St James' Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on January 3, 2021. - Leicester won the game 2-1. (Photo by Michael Regan / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MICHAEL REGAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce is under pressure after Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United. (Photo by MICHAEL REGAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
