Keith Gillespie comments on Newcastle’s reported interest in Mauricio Pochettino

Add as preferred source on Google

Keith Gillespie has told BBC Radio 5 Live on Wednesday evening that he believes Steve Bruce should remain in the Newcastle United managerial hotseat – when asked if Mauricio Pochettino should move to Tyneside.

Sky Sports claimed on Wednesday that Newcastle were preparing an offer to lure Pochettino to St. James’ Park, and are willing to splash a whopping £19million a season to convince Pochettino over a move – which is £365,000 a week.

Out of work since his Tottenham sacking earlier this season, Pochettino has been made first choice by Newcastle’s prospective owners. If they fail to land the Argentine, Rafa Benitez has been touted for a possible return after just one season.

Gillespie was asked if Pochettino should replace Bruce as Newcastle manager as a takeover reportedly edges closer, with the incoming group having paid a deposit. But the ex-Toon winger feels Newcastle should trust their current manager.

“I think it is harsh on Steve Bruce,” Gillespie said. “He wasn’t everyone’s favourite for the job when he got it. But under the circumstances he has done a pretty good job. He deserves that chance with a little bit of backing to see what he can do.

“When these people complete the takeover, that is a decision they have to make. They will want to think big and Pochettino is the big one out there. It would be harsh on Bruce but these people are going to invest a lot of money. It’s up to them.”

TBR’s view – Is Pochettino the man to take Newcastle forward?

Or is Bruce deserving of a chance under the new owners? Certainly, the new owners will have their plans and if they are specific in a certain route they want to take – there is no point handing a huge transfer kitty to Bruce.

But if they are happy to just inject money into the club and trust the current manager and a potential director of football, then Bruce deserves to remain at the club. It remains to be seen if Pochettino wants to move to Newcastle.