Newcastle United

Newcastle United: Steve Howey Backs Graeme Jones in Magpies Setup

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Image for Newcastle United: Steve Howey Backs Graeme Jones in Magpies Setup

Ex-Magpies man Steve Howey was relatively apathetic over the position of Newcastle boss Steve Bruce, claiming that he would be comfortable with assistant manager Graeme Jones usurping Bruce’s job.

Bruce is a much-maligned figure on Tyneside and has been the source of many fan grievances in recent months following prolonged barren spells without wins in the Premier League.

Howey, who made 270 appearances during his career, seemed to share in fan frustrations from many sections of the Newcastle faithful by arguing he would be content to see even assistant manager Graeme Jones in the dugout.

Howey did caveat his claim by adding that Newcastle would likely look to attract a more established name in the managerial world but was nonetheless willing to back Jones.

Speaking to Football FanCast, Howey said of Jones’ managerial future at the club: “I’m not against him taking charge as such, but I think Newcastle would probably look at somebody else. Could Graeme take over as an interim manager until the end of the season? Possibly.

“His contract could be something where, if Bruce goes, then next season has Jones got to be a part of the setup still.

“I wouldn’t be gutted if that was the case but at the same time, I think the club would possibly go for, without being disrespectful, a bigger name.”

Steve Bruce’s tenure on Tyneside this season has seen the Magpies languishing within reach of relegation-threatened Fulham into the final few months of the season – a position that contrasts with some positive early form.

Newcastle’s 2-2 draw against Spurs yielded a vital point in a much-improved display filled with vigour, but fans will still nervously be keeping an eye on results elsewhere.

Howey’s continued apathy towards Bruce is implicitly indicative that he cannot see things improving however, so the ex-Luton Town manager being name-dropped is a talking point in its own right.

With no top-flight experience, some may feel that he is a left-field candidate – but his relatively young age could make his unknown-quantity status a surprise boost.

With the potential to inject fresh ideas, he could be a source of hope.

In other news: Steve Bruce urged to axe club stalwart after recent performances

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