Newcastle United are in a relegation fight according to pundit Robbie Savage.
Savage, who has been one of Steve Bruce's fiercest supporters, believes the Magpies will avoid the drop but will have a fight on their hands to do so.
The former Premier League midfielder also revealed that he doesn't actually think Bruce is a 'great manager' despite the constant defence of his former gaffer.
Speaking to Emma Jones for William Hill, Savage said: "I like defending all managers.
"I've never been a manager, I don't know how difficult it is to be a manager.
"I don't know what the hierarchy have said to him. I've read quotes from Steve Bruce, he said his remit is to keep Newcastle in the Premier League - he'll do that I think.
"I'm not saying Steve Bruce is a great manager, I'm not. I'm saying Steve Bruce, I believe will keep Newcastle in the Premier League.
"Newcastle United fans will want more than that, I understand. They want to watch a better style of football, more attacking football, but sometimes it is very hard to do that.
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"You look at Brighton now playing a much better style of football and yet are in massive relegation trouble.
"Bournemouth, look at the way they played, now they're in the Championship.
"Steve Bruce will keep them in the Premier League but I know Newcastle United fans want more than that."
When asked by Jones if Bruce had taken United forward with the club lying in 15th, Savage added: "It's a very fair debate.
"Their average finishing position when they've been the Premier League since 1992 is 10th place, I think they're about seven points of 10th, so if Steve Bruce finishes in that 10th position, it's an average Premier League season for Newcastle United.
"They are in a relegation battle, I think though. "
