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Kieran King

Steve Bruce delivers Newcastle United relegation verdict as he starts West Brom venture

Steve Bruce has reflected on his time at Newcastle United but insisted his focus is now purely on West Bromwich Albion after being appointed as the club's new head coach.

This is the 61-year-old's first managerial job since leaving the Magpies back in October and will be looking to guide the West Midlands side to promotion back to the Premier League.

The former Aston Villa boss came under increased pressure towards the end of his tenure at St James' Park despite recording two mid-table finishes during his two-and-a-half years in charge.

However, some Newcastle supporters were concerned about their start to the 2021/22 season and Bruce's style of football, but it wasn't until the club's £305m Saudi-led takeover before a change was made at the top.

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After spending a couple of months away from football, Bruce has returned as Albion's new boss after the sacking of Valerian Ismail but he still has great respect and fondness for the Magpies.

Speaking in his first press conference at West Brom, Bruce admitted that he wants Newcastle to do well under Eddie Howe and has wished them the best of luck in the future.

As per Birmingham Live, he said: "You look at it, and you want to go away - but the only way is to get back on the horse. It's gone, behind me, now we move forward.

"Newcastle is gone. It's a chapter of my football life. I want them to do well under Eddie. In a few years they might think finishing 12th and 13th mightn't have been so bad after all.

"Now it's time to take West Brom forward.

"I think Newcastle will stay up. Nothing has changed, though they've added a fair few to their squad. I wish them the best of luck."

He added: "Ron offered to buy me a cup of coffee. I've known him for a bit. He told me about the vision of the club. This is a Premier League club - 13 of the last 20 have been there.

"I'd love to make it five promotions, that's why I'm here. When asked the question, I didn't hesitate - I thought I fancy a crack at that.

"It's like a drug. It's what you do, go to work. Certain people when you get to a certain age, think about retirement. I'm a spring chicken compared to Roy [Hodgson]!

"If I didn't think West Brom couldn't get up again, I wouldn't be here."

Bruce's first game in charge of the Baggies is against former club Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Wednesday, February 9.

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