Steve Bruce insists he has the 'full backing' of Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley after the club's takeover collapsed - and the Magpies' head coach has hit out at some of the 'utterly disrespectful' speculation about his future earlier this summer.
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Amanda Staveley and the Reuben Brothers withdrew their offer to buy the club on July 30.
A takeover had never been closer in the Ashley era but the Premier League's owners' and directors' test dragged on for several months - which hinted at the issues that eventually came to light.
Bruce saw both Mauricio Pochettino and Rafa Benitez linked with his job and repeatedly called for clarity before the takeover collapsed last month.
"Well, we've got clarity on it, that's for sure, and I think that's what I said we needed," the Newcastle head coach told Sky Sports News.
"I don't think I've ever gone on record to say that's what would be the best thing for the fans. My stance was whatever is best for this great football club, whatever the best solution is.
"I don't think it is a secret that the owner is prepared to sell it and it hasn't happened. However, we've got the full backing of the owner to carry on and we just get on with the job in hand.
"Over the summer everyone's story if you like..some of it has been totally and utterly disrespectful towards myself and the staff I have to say - and it hasn't happened.
"We get on with it. We get on with it the best we can and make sure we try and keep taking the club forward."
