Steve Bruce on Newcastle’s stance in the Premier League & Villa clash

Steve Bruce believes

don’t need people telling them about their position in the

table since his men are already aware of their situation.

The Magpies, who currently sit 16th in the top-flight table, are still pressured by the teams at the bottom of the Premier League standing, but Bruce insists that they don’t want a reminder of their current dilemma.

Talking about their stance ahead of their Friday clash with

, he said:

“We’ve understood that for a while now. If you’re in the bottom six or seven… Look, we’re not alone, I’m sure all the other managers will be getting asked the same question.”

“We all don’t want to be down there, we simply haven’t won enough football matches not to be. It’s quite simple: we have to understand what’s before us and get enough points to make sure we stay here.”

Later Bruce talked about

’s absence due to illness, adding:

“Look, when you’re without your best players – and certainly Jack, in my opinion, is their best player – then of course you’re going to miss him.”

“He’s had a wonderful rise over the last few years. I had the pleasure of managing him for a couple of years and have watched his development, and he’s turned into a top, top player, the kid. They’re a better side when Jack’s in it, it’s as simple as that.”

The Magpies boss further gave an update on

,

, and

’s recovery process, concluding:

“He’s [Wilson] four weeks in, so we’re seeing him on the grass and he’s progressing – and that goes for Allan and Almiron as well.”

“We’ve just got to let nature take its course. We hope by the end of the international break they’ll be there or thereabouts.”

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