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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Samuel Meade

Cruel nickname Steve Bruce was called at Newcastle before sacking

Steve Bruce was reportedly known as "Mike Bassett" by at least one Newcastle player following his media gaffes in the lead up to his sacking.

The Magpies have, as was expected, parted company with the 60-year-old by mutual consent.

The club's new Saudi-owners took over a fortnight ago and were always likely to bring their own man into the dugout, reports The Mirror.

It brings to an end Bruce's reign, which lasted just over two years, but was marred by discontent from the fans and poor results amid a lack of investment.

Internally cracks had begun to appear with some eventually mocking their manager's dialogue with the media, such as when he declared, “How’s the bacon?” during a press conference, reports the Athletic.

It earned him the nickname Mike Bassett, who was a character from a 2001 comedy which depicts a lower league manager who is appointed England boss.

The film features several interesting soundbites that are intended to make light of the life of a manager.

Newcastle's situation and the divide between the fans and their manager was a never ending battle for Bruce.

(Wolves via Getty Images)

By February this year, one well-placed source said: “The place is falling apart" and those issues only worsened.

The Magpies are winless in their opening nine games this term, picking up just three points as they battle the drop once again.

Bruce spent much of last season fending off the threat of relegation, eventually leading Newcastle to a 12th place finish.

The 3-2 defeat at the hands of Tottenham, his 1000th game as a manager, was the 60-year-old's final time in the St James' Park dugout.

Graeme Jones will take charge of this weekend's game against Crystal Palace.

Upon leaving the club Bruce said: "I am grateful to everyone connected with Newcastle United for the opportunity to manage this unique football club.

He continued: "I would like to thank my coaching team, the players and the support staff in particular for all their hard work.

"There have been highs and lows, but they have given everything even in difficult moments and should be proud of their efforts.

"This is a club with incredible support, and I hope the new owners can take it forward to where we all want it to be. I wish everyone the very best of luck for the rest of this season and beyond."

Italian Paulo Fonseca, who was linked with the Tottenham vacancy in the summer, is the early favourite to take over with Lucien Favre and Eddie Howe also in the mix.

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