Steve Bruce has "exceeded" expectations at Newcastle United this season and deserves the "chance" to lead the Magpies back into Europe following a prospective takeover.
That's the view of United legend John Beresford, who believes the would-be owners of the club should give the head coach a year to build on his first season in charge.
Bruce succeeded Rafa Benitez in the St James' Park hotseat last summer, and was met with disapproval from certain sections of the Magpies fanbase.
However, the former Aston Villa and Sunderland boss has steered the club clear of any relegation fears and led his team to an FA Cup quarter-final.
Beresford believes Bruce deserves praise for the job he has done in difficult circumstances, and insists he has earned the right to try and take the Magpies to the next level following a takeover.
He told Superstar Speakers: "I know Steve very well. He came in this year and I thought good luck mate. I'm thinking if you finish fourth from bottom, you've done brilliant.
"He's exceeded himself. I hope they can just give him one year at least.
"He deserves the chance to buy the players you think can take us on the next step. You can't just go from where Newcastle are now to top four, but what you can do is probably go top eight and maybe get that Europa spot.
"I've been on planes where fans are getting on with you, and it not only makes their day, it makes their life.
"To get Newcastle back into Europe would just be phenomenal, and I just think it would be nice if Steve could be that person."
The proposed takeover has been in the hands of the Premier League for the last three months, although recent reports claim a decision could be reached soon.
Beresford is confident the deal will be approved, and has called for the would-be owners to provide a team that can excite a disillusioned fanbase once again.
He added: "The club has just been just existing. The owner just wants to make money, I understand what he's trying to do.
"For a city like Newcastle, it doesn't fit. The fans want to be proud of the club, they want to buy the shirt and feels as though they're having a go at something.
"If they fail, they're not bothered. They'll accept it. Just to exist and survive in the Premier League is not what football is about, especially not if you're a Geordie. It's just a different mentality up there.
"It now needs someone who's going to come in and give it a chance. It's ready to go."
