Steve Bruce EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle boss on his biggest challenge at St James’ Park

Steve Bruce has admitted his biggest challenge as Newcastle United boss will be winning over the club’s die-hard fanbase, as he bids to grasp his ‘big opportunity’ at St James’ Park with both hands.

The former Sheffield Wednesday boss was named as Rafa Benitez’s successor earlier this month which sparked a furious response from large sectors of the Toon faithful.

There has even been talk of some fans boycotting the club’s opening game of the Premier League season against Arsenal on August 11.

However, Bruce understands the frustration surrounding his appointment – admitting he isn’t ‘everybody’s cup of tea’ – and says anyone replacing Benitez would’ve had ‘big boots’ to fill.

Speaking exclusively on Kick Off, Bruce said: “It’s all been a bit of a blur so far, but I’ve really enjoyed it.

“My dad used to say to me I was mad full stop getting into management!

“I really couldn’t turn this job down again – I’d have lived to regret it. The easiest thing to do would have been to say no.

“I was happy and settled in Sheffield, but the Wednesday chairman [Dejphon Chansiri] understood my decision and we shook hands and wished each other all the best.”

He continued: “My biggest challenge is to win over the supporters.

“I’m not everybody’s cup of tea, and many have voiced their disapproval that I got the job, but I’ll give it everything I can.

“One thing I do know is that the Newcastle fans will be there cheering their team like no other set of supporters can do when the season starts.

“There’s been talk of a boycott but I firmly believe they will stand by their team.

“This club has an incredible fan base and I hope I can be the man to keep moving this club forward.

“Rafa was that popular with the fans here that whoever was going to come in had big boots to fill.

“There aren’t too many Rafa Benitez’s around who have been as successful as he’s been and won the Champions League.

“So there was always going to be an adverse reaction. I completely understand that and it’s up to me now to prove people wrong by getting results on the field.

“This is my big opportunity in management, there’s no doubt about that. I’ve had to wait a while for it, but I’m determined to be a success at this magnificent football club.”