Steve Bruce says he understands the fan unrest on Tyneside after Newcastle United’s relegation battle suddenly became very real.
In the space of two weeks, Fulham have chased down a 10-point gap and cut Newcastle’s advantage to just three.
A big weekend now awaits with United facing Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham squaring up to Crystal Palace in a London derby at Selhurst Park.
When asked about the fans, Bruce said: “Of course, they don’t want to see their team at the wrong end of the table.
“I understand that totally.
“The one thing we’ve got is a unique fanbase which makes us the club we’ve got.
“Of course, they’re anxious.
“As I’ve said I’m quietly confident, if we keep performing like that for the first hour in particular, I’m still confident that we’ll be fine.”
Bruce continues to insist there are a number of teams in trouble.
But the battle at the bottom now seems to be boiling down to a straight shoot-out between Newcastle and Fulham.
Indeed, Sheffield United are cut adrift at the bottom and West Brom look destined to finish second bottom.
Bruce said: “I’m sure there’s a few looking over their shoulder, and, of course, we’re one (of them).
“I’m still quietly confident we’ll be fine if we keep performing like we did for the first hour. “It was always going to be difficult going to Chelsea away and then Man United away. I’ve been pleased with certain aspects of us.”
