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.
17. SUB: JOELINTON
Joelinton didn’t pull up any trees but it’s important to recognise that the Brazilian did actually improve last season. He’ll never live up to his £40m price tag but that’s irrelevant now as he prepares for a third season at St James’s Park. Photo: Stu Forster
18. SUB: DWIGHT GAYLE
Gayle is a natural goalscorer but struggles to do it consistently in the Premier League. With Andy Carroll gone, he's the only out-and-out striker Bruce can turn to if Wilson picks up an injury. Photo: Michael Regan