The Magpies welcome David Moyes’ Hammers to St James’s Park on Sunday, August 15 - but it hasn’t exactly been ideal preparation for Bruce and co.
No new signings have arrived as the club awaits a final decision on number one transfer target Joe Willock’s future at Arsenal.
There have also been injuries to deal with too - with suggestions that Paul Dummett and Jonjo Shelvey could join Martin Dubravka as those to miss the first game.
Bearing all the uncertainty in mind, our writer Jordan Cronin picks out Bruce’s current strongest starting XI and subs ahead of facing West Ham.
Do you agree? Let us know by tweeting us @MouthOfTynePod.
13. SUB: FEDERICO FERNANDEZ
Harsh and certainly not easy to leave the Argentine on the bench, who is a vastly consistent performer and rarely puts a foot wrong. If he plays, then we’ll all be happy. Photo: Alex Pantling
14. SUB: JAMAL LEWIS
Expect bigger things from Lewis this term. Signed for £15m from Norwich City, last season was a big learning curve for the young left-back and he’ll be better for it as he looks to kickstart his NUFC career. Photo: Michael Regan
15. SUB: JEFF HENDRICK
It was between Hendrick and Matty Longstaff but the latter isn’t at all in favour under Bruce. Like Fraser, it’s a big season for the midfielder after taking the brunt of criticism from United fans last year. Photo: Michael Regan
16. SUB: RYAN FRASER
The Scotland international simply has to be better. A lot better. Fraser showed glimpses last term but overall was very underwhelming. A first proper pre-season in two years will hopefully aim his cause. Photo: Michael Regan