When a transfer window nears, Newcastle always seem to be in the headlines over reported links to players, and ahead of January this season, it has been no different.
But lately, almost all the rumours are regarding young players who have reportedly been identified as having brilliant futures, while currently still making their way in the game.
It is risky to rely on young talent, and usually they need older, experienced players around them, in order to nurture them, and bring the best out of them.
Some fans have questioned many of Steve Bruce’s abilities since he was appointed, whether it is his formations, the team selection, or his substitutions.
But one area that Bruce actually has a decent record, is his ability to spot a talented player from a young age, and make bold signings, based on his instinct.
Looking back at young prospects Bruce has signed at other clubs during his managerial career, some notable names pop out at you.
In July 2014, Bruce made a double signing of two relatively unknown defenders for Hull City at a combined total of £5.35 million. They were Harry Maguire and Andy Robertson.
Maguire was then a 21-year-old centre-back at League One Sheffield United, while Robertson was playing for Scottish Premiership side Dundee United.
Of course, the latter is one of the top full-backs in thr Premier League with Liverpool now, and Maguire made an £80m move to Manchester United last summer.
Bruce also signed John McGinn for Aston Villa
John McGinn is also currently linked with Manchester United, as he is excelling at Aston Villa during their return season in the top flight.
McGinn’s move to Villa Park from Hibernian, as they pinched him from under the noses of Celtic, was another Bruce signing.
Bruce went on to call the midfielder his “best ever signing” and predicted his success when he claimed he would become “one of the Premier League’s most sought after players”.
He has gone on to become exactly that.
Bruce also took current Newcastle target Jarrod Bowen to Hull, from Hereford in 2014, and he now has a price-tag of at least £20m.
Obviously there have been poor signings from him, every manager makes them, but overall, it seems evident that Bruce can spot a talent from an early age.
It would be foolish for Lee Charnley, Mike Ashley and anyone else involved in the recruitment team, to ignore Bruce’s advice and recommendations when it comes to a young prospect he is interested in bringing to the club.
He may not be seen as a master tactician, but his past record suggests he could unearth some real future stars for Newcastle United.
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