Steve Bruce's son speaks out about the abuse his dad receives from NUFC fans online
Alex Bruce has today spoken out about the level of abuse his dad, Steve Bruce, receives on social media.
In his latest interview, that sees him jump to the defence of his father, Bruce junior insists that the criticism he receives is "unfair" and makes a "massive, massive difference."
The NUFC boss recently stated that he ignores social media and doesn't pay any attention to the "keyboard warriors" within our fanbase - but his son feels sure it makes his job much tougher.
Here's what he's had to say about it all today:
"I do think the stick he gets is unfair, but it’s also unfair on a lot of Premier League managers.
"You look at the criticism and abuse they get on social media and it makes a massive difference.
"Social media gives people this platform and for a job that was already tough, it makes it even harder.
"Previously, fans on the outside didn’t have such a level of influence but now they do and it’s something managers and players have to deal with
"You look at the criticism and abuse they get on social media and it makes a massive difference.
"Social media gives people this platform and for a job that was already tough, it makes it even harder.
"Previously, fans on the outside didn’t have such a level of influence but now they do and it’s something managers and players have to deal with.
"So while he (Steve Bruce) does get a lot of criticism, he is enjoying it, Newcastle is his team – everyone knows that’s where he’s from and he’s looking to do the best job possible to ensure the fans are happy!"
I don't think there's any place for personal abuse - whether you rate the job a football manager is doing or not - however it is part and parcel of the job that those in the firing line will be questioned and critiqued should they fall below fan expectations.
What doesn’t help is the fact so many pundits and mates of Steve Bruce's in the media give him an easy ride, consistently ignoring the very fair points us fans raise on social media or radio call-ins.
Social media can be a toxic place where faceless accounts say what they want without any consequences, but there's a big difference between abuse and criticism - and it feels to me Steve Bruce can't take the latter.
As soon as he's rightfully questioned on tactics or recent performances he jumps on the defensive, something that only fuels frustration amongst Newcastle United fans.
In the end, Bruce has probably got off lightly, with the level of criticism likely to have gone up another level had fans been allowed in stadiums this season!
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