BRUCE: TOP BOSS DAVID IS NO DINOSAUR

STEVE BRUCE has hailed David Moyes the Premier League manager of the season – after overcoming accusations he is a dinosaur coach.

Newcastle manager Bruce (left) has already voted for his West Ham counterpart as the season’s top boss for leading the Hammers into top four contention.

And Bruce reckons Jesse Lingard, who he tried to sign on loan in January, is currently the best player in the Premier League after eight goals and three assists in nine games since moving from Manchester United.

Bruce says Moyes gives him hope that he can turn Newcastle into contenders next season, after West Ham’s struggles last term.

Asked about those dinosaur slurs against Moyes, Bruce joked: “Are you saying there are certain similarities?

“He has dispelled all those myths. When you get older you have to deal with those things. He has got to the top. He has a certain resilience and toughness.

“He is relentless in his work ethic.

“It doesn’t surprise me he has done well. He’s had some tough months in the last few years.

“But Moysey is the manager of the year.

“To keep them top four and vying for the Champions League is a wonderful achievement by them all, staff and players.

“At the right time, Jesse

Lingard came in at Christmas. They recruited well and have had a great season.”

Lingard was a Bruce target in the last transfer window but the England star chose West

Ham instead.

“Jesse is a wonderful loan signing,” said the Toon boss.

“It looks like he has lit up the place with enthusiasm and endeavour and is as good as anyone in the

Premier League at the moment.” Newcastle have Allan Saint-maximin (inset) and Callum Wilson pushing to start their first game since injuries, after being used as subs in Sunday’s 2-1 win against Burnley. Bruce – who offered “no opinion” on the club’s takeover controversy – says the duo transform his side. He added: “The stats prove it. We win most games with Allan in.”