While a relegation battle was not something Magpies fans had in mind, predictions were made on how the top-flight would finish in May, prior to the beginning of the campaign.
And here, we take a look at where Bruce’s men were tipped to finish in the table by FiveThirtyEight at the start date in September 2020 – compared to the 12th position they actually ended up in.
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1. Manchester City - same position (1st)
Pep Guardiola’s men were predicted to lift the Premier League title and that is what they did, finishing 12 points ahead of runners-up Manchester United. Photo: Michael Regan
2. Liverpool - down one position (3rd)
Liverpool were predicted to finish runners-up to Man City but in reality, Jurgen Klopp’s side were more than happy to clinch third place in the end. Photo: PAUL ELLIS
3. Manchester United - up one position (2nd)
Man United finished one place higher than initially predicted, but that provides zero comfort after losing the Europa League final to Villarreal. Photo: GARETH COPLEY
4. Chelsea - same position (4th)
It went down to the final day but the European champions secured a top four finish after Thomas Tuchel took over from club legend Frank Lampard. Photo: SUSANA VERA