While they lack consistency and strikers who can score goals, they are starting to create and have, in recent weeks, caused some of the best sides in the Premier League problems.
This success has been built using Rafa Benitez’s 2018/19 notes, with a few Bruce tweaks. It still largely relies upon a solid defensive base, three at the back and the midfield which guided United out of the Championship, but an injection of pace, and quality out wide is making all the difference.
One key statistic stands out like a sore thumb for United this season – and it’s possession.
Here’s how the Magpies rank in terms of Premier League possession percentages – and it's shockingly low. But as Bruce’s Magpies proved on Saturday against Manchester City, it’s what you do with the ball, not how much you have it, that matters.
Below is the Premier League possession percentages ranked from 1-20. Click through to find out Newcastle’s percentage.
13. Aston Villa - 46
Dean Smith has so far overseen an impressive return to the Premier League for the Villa Park outfit. | Getty Images Photo: Dan Mullan
14. Bournemouth - 45.2
Eddie Howe's Bournemouth don't rely on a possession-based game - and these stats prove that. | Getty Images Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
15. Crystal Palace - 44.3
Roy Hodgson's men are the division's joint second lowest scorers with just 13 goals this season. | Getty Images Photo: Nigel Roddis
16. Sheffield United - 42.2
19 points from 14 games has been a remarkable start to life back in the top flight - but possession puts them in the bottom three. | Getty Images Photo: Shaun Botterill