This is what is 'really, really impressive' about Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce

Bruce – who started out in management at Sheffield United in the late 1990s – is under intense pressure at Newcastle United following a dismal run of two wins in 19 games in all competitions.

Relegation-threatened Newcastle take on Potter’s Brighton and Hove Albion side at the Amex Stadium tonight in a six-pointer.

And Potter spoke warmly about Bruce, appointed as Rafa Benitez’s successor in the summer of 2019, ahead of the fixture.

Asked if he admired Bruce, Potter said: “I absolutely do, because I think Steve has faced those challenges pretty early in his time there. And the way I think he conducts himself, and the way he has gone about his work, is really, really impressive.

"But you are looking at a really experienced Premier League manager.

"I have always got respect – I've only been in it a couple of years – and I respect the longevity of his career, because it’s relentless – it’s challenging on so many levels – and I think he has survived and worked at this level for a long time. So I have respect for that.”

Potter was also asked if he had “sympathy” for Bruce, who is the favourite to the next Premier League manager to leave his post amid calls from United fans for a managerial change at St James’s Park.

“I don't know if sympathy is the right word, because I think we all know we are in this game – and anything can happen,” said Potter, who succeeded former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton at the Amex Stadium.

“I think you empathise more than sympathy. And I think you know it is a tough job – and a tough business. We’re one of 20 people working in the Premier League in this fantastic environment where you are challenging yourself all the time at the highest level.

"I don't think sympathy is necessarily the word, but, certainly, I empathise with him – and understand the frustrations and the challenges that he will have.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor