Steve Bruce discusses Newcastle change of system

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Steve Bruce has suggested that moving forward he may stick with a four at the back system, after recently mixing it up his team selection at Newcastle United.

The Magpies have found recent success in recent seasons with a 5-4-1 system, which has made them incredible resilient defensively and made the most of their quality at the back.

But it has made them labelled a fairly unattractive side to watch due to a lack of goals and it’s been an ongoing issue at St James’ Park.

Bruce did make a switch to a back four in the previous three fixtures before the coronavirus outbreak meant that football was temporarily suspended.

A new-look 4-4-2 system saw them look far more threatening as an attacking force and an extra forward on the pitch gave them a different edge.

“If Southampton was anything to go by and the chances created, that is how we go moving forward,” Bruce told the Chronicle.

“That isn’t to say if we play Man City away I won’t revert to five at the back, I possibly will do, but I think it’s vitally important you have the ability to change. Overall I have always enjoyed playing two up top. That’s my philosophy if you like and my style so we will see.

“In the last week, buoyed by results, it is the way forward. Since the change, we had 21 attempts against Burnley, scored three at West Brom and beat Southampton on a day when we created six glorious chances.”

TBR’s View:

Newcastle can’t afford to lose their defensive steel moving forward, as it’s been the cornerstone of their survival in the top-flight and the solid platform has kept them away from relegation.

But they have spent some serious money on attacking positions with the likes of Joelinton, Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron, so would like to see some more eye-catching football.

They certainly need to be looking at bringing in another centre-forward for next season to help them kick on, but it’s refreshing to hear Bruce will adapt the style.