Brighton manager Graham Potter has admitted that he emphasises with Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce.
The Seagulls host the Magpies in the Premier League this evening in a vital match for the relegation picture.
Fulham’s defeat by Leeds United on Friday night has added even greater importance to the 8pm kick-off on the south coast, with both sides keen to pull away from the relegation zone.
The Seagulls are one point and one position better off than Newcastle, who are 17th and two points ahead of Fulham going into this evening’s clash.
Bruce has been under pressure all season and, with his side winless in five matches, Potter was asked if he sympathised with the veteran manager.
“I don't know if sympathy is the right word because I think we all know we are in this game and anything can happen,” Potter said, as reported by The Argus.
“I think you empathise more than sympathy. And I think you know it is a tough job and a tough business.
“We are one of 20 people working in the Premier League in this fantastic environment where you are challenging yourself all the time at the highest level.
“I don't think sympathy is necessarily the word but certainly I empathise with him and understand the frustrations and the challenges that he will have.”
Bruce has been dealing with the fallout from his argument with Matt Ritchie this week, with the Magpies boss denying that the winger had refused to take part in a TV interview to explain the training ground bust-up.
Victory in this evening’s match against Brighton would take some of the pressure off Bruce after three successive Premier League draws.
Goals from Patrick Bamford and Raphinha earned the Whites a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage and means Newcastle can go five points clear of Fulham with a win tonight.
