Fabian Schar believes Newcastle are better equipped under Bruce than Benitez

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Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar believes the Magpies squad is in better shape this year than last.

The £3 million signing from Deportivo La Coruna (BBC Sport) reckons the club are better equipped to survive in the Premier League than at the same point last year.

The Toon Army currently lie 17th in the table just a point above the relegation zone.

Heading into the 11th round of fixtures, they are actually better off points-wise than at the same point last season.

In 2018/19, Newcastle hadn’t won a single game under Rafa Benitez after 10 games, but the Spaniard ultimately succeeded in masterminding the club’s escape from danger.

Comparing Bruce’s Newcastle to Benitez’s, Schar told Sky Sports: “It’s been a mixed start to the season but we’ve had a difficult start against five of the big sides in the first 10 games.

“I’m positive in the quality and belief in the team, we perhaps have more quality than last year.

“We’re still at the bottom of the table but it’s very close and with one or two wins, everything looks better.”

TBR’s view – Schar take a debatable one

Newcastle may have invested more heavily than usual in the summer, but it’s arguable they are better off than at the same point last season.

They obviously are better off in terms of points, but the Magpies no longer have the fantastic Benitez, who knew how to get the best out of his limited resources.

Last term Newcastle were better equipped to survive because of Benitez.

Money has been splashed, but whether Bruce can get the best out of players like Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Allan Saint-Maximin remains to be seen.