What a difference a year makes at Newcastle United.
At the start of 2020, Toon fans didn’t believe that Steve Bruce was the right man to manage Newcastle.
More than 12 months on, and the feeling remains the same. The Magpies are in the midst of a relegation battle, whilst a training ground bust-up dominates the media.
According to the Daily Mail, Matt Ritchie called Bruce a ‘coward’ after the manager blamed him for the calamitous equaliser we conceded against Wolves. Ritchie has since apologised.
An article from the Telegraph has since tried to give the other side of the story, but it also claims that Ritchie has been frustrated at St James’ Park ‘for months’.
There was a lot of talk of Ritchie going back to Bournemouth in January, but Bruce wouldn’t allow him to leave in the end. Meanwhile, the £10million man has been a bystander most of the season, starting just six Premier League games so far.
Ever since he joined the club, Ritchie has been a key player. His attitude has resonated with fans, even when his performances haven’t been up to scratch.
But when you look back at what Ritchie said on January 16th 2020, it shows how much has changed.
“He (Bruce) did not really know me, but came in when I was injured and was fantastic with man-management. I know the other lads feel the same,” Ritchie told the Chronicle last year.
“Newcastle is a very happy camp this season.”
In just over 13 months, Newcastle have gone from a ‘happy camp’ to a club divided once again.
The fans are unhappy. We saw this coming, but were ignored and laughed at by the media who lauded Steve Bruce.
Now the club is in a relegation battle, and all the signs suggest it will end in tears for the Toon Army.
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