Bob Moncur believes that Steve Bruce has a "massive challenge" ahead of him as new head coach of Newcastle United.
The former Toon skipper - who has travelled with the squad to China for their tour - is glad to see Bruce finally appointed as boss after an agonising summer at St James' Park.
Bruce will be in the stands for his first game against West Ham in the Premier League's Asia Trophy on Saturday morning.
Moncur told the Chronicle: "Steve has been appointed and it's done and dusted.
"Sadly, Rafa Benitez has gone and he made his choice.
"Whatever you can say about the circumstances it is history now unfortunately.
"Steve has come in and he knows he wasn't first choice.
"At the end of the day he is the guy who had the gumption to take on the challenge. It is a massive challenge.
"Everybody knows it is a very difficult job and regardless of what people might think and you have to get behind him now.
"I wish him success. There's no magical thing about this, he is the boss, let's get behind him and support him."
Newcastle players have welcomed Bruce to the team's Shangari-La hotel in Pudong and the Geordie boss took training this morning before spending time with some of the younger players.
Moncur watched training and gave his views.
Bruce said: "It's good that the players have a boss.
"I watched them train and he has them up and running.
"There was a bit of old school running in pre-season. It may prove successful.
"Who is anybody to criticise his style before giving him a chance?"
