Players are totally behind the boss - Dummett
NEWCASTLE United defender Paul Dummett has insisted the entire Toon squad is right behind Steve Bruce and his coaching staff.
The former Wales international is back from injury and self-isolation and is expected to feature against Arsenal in the FA Cup third round tonight.
Bruce has came under fire after picking up just one win in six, with suggestions the squad is no longer playing for the ex-Red Devils’ skipper.
However, Dummett insisted the players “love” working for Bruce and said: “I think the whole squad would back me in saying that.
“They all love working with the coaching staff and the manager.
“They have been brilliant with me since I have been injured and are always asking how you are. It is nice when they are interested.
“It has been a long tough road for me but hopefully I can repay them on the pitch.”
Dummett made his return to action after a year of injuries in the 1-1 draw with Fulham and spoke passionately within seconds of leaving the field, saying 2020 had made him feel like quitting the game at one stage.
He added: “I know 2020 has been difficult for everybody but for me being injured, then getting fit and not being able to play (unexpectedly available but not registered for Project Restart) and then other little setbacks along the way - it has been tough and a lot of players go through tough spells.
“I think what I said after the Fulham game was taken out of context when emotions were running high.
“What I meant was that a lot of players in all divisions go through injuries and setbacks and those things make you stronger.
“It was just the fact you are at home watching when the team is away and you are at the training ground working hard when nobody else is there.
“I just want to be out there playing as much as I can and playing for the club I love.
“I think what I said just came out wrong and made me look like I wanted to quit football when it was not actually the case.
“It has been a long 12 months for me but I am fit and raring to go and feeling better than ever really.”