Only at Newcastle United could the role of a coach be analysed so much.
Graeme Jones’ arrival in January caused a stir. Was he brought in by the board to help Steve Bruce? Or was he brought in by Bruce himself?
Either way, there was an immediate change in fortuntes.
Newcastle’s first game after Jones’ arrival was the 2-0 win away to Everton – arguably our best performance of the season.
Since Jones became a coach, the Magpies have ended a run of 11 games without victory and picked up seven points. Without those points, they would be in the relegation zone.
Jones’ appointment also coincided with a change in system, as Newcastle started using a diamond with players trying to press higher up the pitch.
This has led to huge praise for Jones, even though he’s just a coach and Bruce remains manager.
Amid the Daily Mail’s report of a bust-up between Bruce and Matt Ritchie, they claimed that several players actually want Jones to be manager.
The report also stated that Bruce pointed the finger at Jones for the comical goal we conceded against Wolves.
But the Telegraph claim that Bruce is happy with the latest addition to his backroom staff.
They claim that Bruce trusts Jones and doesn’t feel like the former Luton boss has his own agenda – i.e. replacing him as manager.
Bruce should trust Jones, as it can’t be a coincidence that his arrival came just before a change in style and approach.
Regardless of how Bruce feels about Jones, it’s clear how some Toon fans feel. Many of them do want Jones to replace him.
Otherwise, it feels like we are a club destined for relegation.
Bad manager, injuries to our best attackers, in-house fighting – there’s only one way this ship is going, and it’s down.
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