Players have knuckled down – boss

Steve Bruce says he hasn’t seen much of Allan SaintMaximin (above), Matt Ritchie (right) and hasn’t seen Florian Lejeune (far right) play yet points at this stage, we’d all be delighted, considering I didn’t come in until towards the end of preseason.

“It all takes time.

“I am delighted how we played last week but that’s gone. “Back-toback wins in the Premier

League are huge.

“Can we go and do it?

“And can we do it in front of our own supporters?

“It would be nice.”

Despite suffering some stinging criticism this season, Bruce admitted that it was a results-driven business and he could only focus on winning.

The former Hull City and Wigan Athletic boss said: “All I can do is concentrate on the job in hand and try to pick up a few results.

“It was a good day at West Ham but that’s gone.

“All we can do is look to tomorrow and try to have a big performance in front of our own crowd. “It’s important.”

STEVE Bruce believes his Newcastle United side have responded in the right manner since their heavy defeat against Leicester City.

The Magpies have beaten West Ham and Man United and picked up a draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Newcastle could even go into the international break in or around the top 10 in the Premier League.

Bruce said today: “The last few weeks have proved we have knuckled down and done very well.

“It is important that we continue it. We have only shown signs, bits and pieces.

“Certainly last week in the first hour was terrific to watch.”

However, Bruce is not resting on his laurels and knows his team can get better, not least his forward line of Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Allan SaintMaximin.

He said: “We know they have still got to score but it was good for Joe to make one.

“I keep telling people that they are young and are getting used to playing in England.

“Whoever you are and whatever price tag you come with, you have to try to adapt to the Premier League.

“It takes time, you don’t get time these days, but they are very good players.

“They were a threat last weekend and let’s hope they can do the same thing again.