Bruce says Covid- hit clubs fielding youth teams ‘ devalues the FA Cup’
Steve Bruce says fielding youth teams in the FA Cup "devalues" the competition even in the midst of the coronavirus crisis - and has questioned the morality of continuing the season at all.
Despite his own squad still struggling with the aftermath of its own outbreak, the Newcastle boss is determined to name a strong l i ne - up f or today's third- round trip to Arsenal.
Aston Villa fielded a youth team in their match against Liverpool last night and Derby have indicated they will do likewise against Chorley today due t o t heir s quads being depleted due to the virus.
Bruce said: "I think it devalues the FA Cup.
"We understand the restrictions, the season has been s quashed and t here i s no room for anything else. ( But) to play weakened teams and your youth team is not the way round it for me, personally."
Newcastle are still feeling the after- effects of their own coronavirus outbreak which forced the postponement of their Premier League match at Villa on December 1.
Captain Jamaal Lascelles was only given the green light to resume training this week after shaking off the virus, while Alain Saint- Maximin has returned to Tyneside but is still awaiting the all- clear.
Bruce admitted he was conflicted about continuing the season.
He added: "We have had two players who were very, very sick and one or two members of staff who were nearly hospitalised.
"It's not been easy but yes we'll keep going along - financially it's right but maybe morally it's wrong.”