The decision to avoid questions from written media feels like the 'beginning of the end' for Steve Bruce at Newcastle United.
That's the view of talkSPORT host Adrian Durham, who believes 'fans deserve answers' following a dreadful run of form which has seen the Magpies plummet into a relegation fight.
Bruce's future at St James' Park has become the subject of intense scrutiny in recent weeks, with Saturday's defeat at Aston Villa extending Newcastle's winless run to 10 matches in all competitions.
The negative coverage seemingly prompted the club to decline questions from written media in Bruce's latest pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday's clash with Leeds United.
It is a move which has been condemned by supporters on social media, and talkSPORT commentator Durham has echoed the view of furious fans.
Speaking on his 'Drive' show on Monday, the radio host believes it's 'weak management' from Bruce and an excuse to avoid tough questions about his side's form.
Durham told talkSPORT: "I think they've changed system eight times. His selection leaves a bit to be desired.
"They're basically rubbish to watch. They don't score goals, they don't defend their own goal so there's nothing to love about this Newcastle side.
"When you say at a press conference I'm not allowing questions from newspaper journalists, that's the beginning of the end. He's basically saying don't ask me questions because I can't answer them.
"I think that's really, really poor. It's weak management. I don't want to say this about Steve Bruce because he seems like a lovely guy.
"But why aren't you taking questions? What on earth is wrong with you? The fans deserve answers, and this is your only way to get through to them.
"By the way, how lucky is Steve Bruce they haven't had fans at Newcastle this season?"
