Steve Bruce says Newcastle United’s squad has lacked depth in the final laps of the season.
The Magpies had to put out a patched-up side against Brighton & Hove Albion and Bruce insisted he needed up to four or five new faces this summer.
But he believes United have not been able to cope compared to others sides.
He said: "Fair play to everyone that worked tirelessly to get the games on and get the season finished.
“However it's been a long, long year and we'll have played ten games in 35 days which is a huge ask.
“We haven't got the ability to rotate so all in all the players have done well."
United’s defensive line-up included two full-backs in his back three last night.
And with Jamaal Lascelles, Florian Lejeune, Ciaran Clark and Fabian Schar all out and Paul Dummett unavailable, the Toon boss knows he is depleted going into the final game.
He said: “Emil Krafth has a really sore ankle. He's done well to carry on.
“He epitomised the spirit of all of them today. It wasn't a classic, don't get me wrong.
“However it was important that we put a point on the board."
Despite having a point - and admitting he was grateful - on the board Bruce knows it could have been more.
He said: “I thought if anyone was going to win it in the second half it was us.
“When you see Andy Carroll head and shoulders above their defenders you think it's a classic Andy goal.
“He's disappointed because it had goal written all over it but it wasn't to be."
