Bruce praises 4 Newcastle stars & confirms 2 'tactical changes' after big win at Everton
Steve Bruce hailed the 'crucial' Callum Wilson following arguably our best performance of his 18 month tenure Everton - insisting that Almiron, Hayden, Shelvey were also 'big players' in our massive win on Merseyside.
Wilson bagged a brace at Goodison as we secured a well-deserved three points to ease the pressure on Bruce - who had come under huge pressure after 0 wins in 11 as Newcastle boss - however he insisted that it was the team effort from all involved that got us over the line.
The gaffer also made a note of the our change in approach, stating that a aggressive pressing game is something they've been working on behind the scenes - suggesting he wants to move away from sitting deep and playing on the counter.
Bruce also confirmed another tactical change regarding Callum Wilson - who drifted into wide areas for large parts of the game - and claims it's a move many would've slated him for had the result gone differently!
Here is what he said to BT Sport after our 2-0 win, with it noticeable that he kept his emotions in check after the game - suggesting he knows there's still plenty work to do to:
Despite being a recent critic of Steve Bruce, I hope he enjoys his post-match pint as much as I have following today’s win.
Some of the abuse he has had to endure is brutal - and without a doubt personal - so although I don’t feel he is the man to lead us forward long-term, I hope today serves as somewhat of a relief from the pressure he must be feeling on his shoulders.
As for the team, by God they were fantastic. Every player seemed to play for that shirt and can all hold their head up high after that result. Wilson kept his cool despite missing a sitter and brought home the goods to give us an unlikely win.
We actually went out there, took the game to the Toffees and deserved to win the game. I haven’t felt as proud of an NUFC performance since West Ham at the start of season, but we MUST capitalise and pick up a result at home to Palace on Tuesday night.
Every player put in a shift and that is all we can ask for as Newcastle fans. Big shout out to Graeme Jones too. Our new coach clearly made a difference as we looked SO much better going forward while in possession.
A result on Tuesday will allow us to start looking up the table rather than over our shoulder in fear.
