Steve Bruce claims Newcastle need to undertake ‘most important’ job ahead of next season

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Steve Bruce has claimed that Newcastle United need three or four signings to bring some quality to the Geordies’ squad ahead of next season.

The northeast outfit have struggled massively this campaign, finishing just above the relegation zone despite splashing out more than £35m on incoming last summer.

However, the season has been marred by matters off the pitch with the Saudi-backed takeover of the club going to an appeal at the Competition Appeals Tribunal.

Furthermore, Bruce’s future came into question halfway through the year with reports claiming the manager had a bust-up with Matt Ritchie. Then there’s the former Manchester United defender’s interviews with media outlets which has caused an uproar among the Toon army.

When talking about summer signings, Bruce said: “I think we need at least 3 or 4 but, for me, now, it’s adding that bit of quality to the squad. We’ve seen the impact that Callum’s had for example….that bit of quality we can add to the existing squad we’ve got is the most important thing.”

TBR View: Quality signings won’t cover Bruce’s lack of managerial ability

You can sign as many quality players as you want, if the man in charge of the squad isn’t up to scratch a team will struggle.

Bruce’s horrible management has been one of the key factors in the club’s shocking season. The recent upturn in form from the first-team squad has highlighted just how talented the current squad is and why the 61-year-old needs replacing in the summer.

Joe Willock has shown off his goalscoring ability from the centre of midfield, which may lead some to believe Bruce has shown off his managerial nous. But, the Arsenal man had long shown off his attacking threat long before his move to St James’ Park with the Gunners, drawing comparisons with club legend Aaron Ramsey.

And the squad’s revolt against the Corbridge-born man also suggests that all is not well with everything with regards to the harmony within the team.

Bruce’s lack of managerial ability won’t paper over the cracks, no matter how many quality players the club sign this summer. There needs to be a change in the hot seat if the team harbour serious hopes of not fighting relegation next campaign.