Newcastle have finally confirmed Steve Bruce will take charge of his 1,000th game as a manager on Sunday - but effectively admitted he'll be getting the sack soon.
After a week of uncertainty, including claims he would be sacked this week, director Amanda Staveley warned fans: “Change does not happen overnight.”
And in an ominous statement for Bruce she added: “If we make any changes going forward, Steve will be the first to know but, in the meantime, we wish him the best of luck.”
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Bruce spent the week in limbo with no backing from his bosses, who initially said only that the team was better than their current position of without a win this season and 19th in the Premier League.
United fans will have to be patient to get the managerial change they want, and Bruce will be in the dug-out to face Spurs.
In a fresh statement at 12.50 today, 40 minutes before Bruce was scheduled to take his press conference, Staveley said she had given Bruce “space and time” to prepare his players for the crunch clash.
She said: “We have had an extremely busy week reviewing the business and getting to know people and it is imperative that we continue to be patient and considered in our approach. Change does not always happen overnight, it demands time and that we follow a carefully considered plan and strategy.
“We met Steve and the players on Monday and have given them the time and space this week to focus on preparing for what is a very important game on Sunday.
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“Steve has been very professional in our dealings with him and he and his coaching team will take the team on Sunday.
“If we make any changes going forward, Steve will be the first to know but, in the meantime, we wish him the best of luck in his 1,000th match as a manager and will be joining you in getting right behind the team.
“Thank you for the warm welcome you have given us. We can’t wait to be at St. James’ Park with you.”
