Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce expects to remain in charge of the Magpies going into next season despite having been fiercely criticised by the club's supporters throughout the campaign.
The former Manchester United defender's contract at St. James' Park runs until June 2022 and despite having been dragged into the relegation battle, three wins in their last five fixtures have contributed to them pulling away from the danger zone.
Bruce has insisted he will not be walking away from the job on his own accord and suggested he still has plenty more to offer, here's what he had to say (via BBC Sport):
"I have a contract, so until I hear otherwise we'll crack on. I'm a football manager, I'm not ready to retire yet.
"You have to dust yourself down and have a thick skin. I'll crack on to the best of my ability. I've had to scrap and fight all my life. As [a] player and manager, nothing has come easy for me. I have to work hard and dig deep and get my rewards."
He may not have the backing of all the club's supporters but judging by the fact he's already 'working quietly behind the scenes' on plans for next season, we can perhaps assume he has been given assurances by the Newcastle hierarchy with regards to his immediate future. He added:
"We're doing pre-season preparations now. We've already had transfer conversations. The big conversations are still to be had."
Despite what has been a difficult campaign for the Toon army, they could still surpass last season's points tally of 44. They currently have 39 on the board and face the already relegated Sheffield United and Fulham in two of their three remaining games.
Source : 90min