Mike Ashley could do the unthinkable if Newcastle are relegated this summer - The Athletic

According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, it's understood Mike Ashley feels Steve Bruce is 'here to stay' and could stick with the unpopular NUFC boss even if we suffered relegation this summer.

With us currently just a point above the drop zone and on a run that features just TWO wins in 18 games, the vast majority of fans want him sacked now - making the prospect of him sticking around in the second tier all the more unbearable and baffling.

Toon supporters have voiced their concerns on social media that we are sleepwalking into a third relegation of the Mike Ashley era with Bruce at the helm, however it would be no surprise if the deluded NUFC owner saw his Championship experience and four promotions as a reason to stand by his man.

Here's what he had to say when speaking during his latest podcast for The Athletic:

“I’ve even received some indications that the view at the top of Newcastle is that Steve Bruce is here to stay and the players need to get their act together”,

“That may well even continue into the Championship if Newcastle are relegated.

“Mike Ashley does not want to get rid of Steve Bruce.”

If this all came true, it would surely be a devastating double blow to the Toon Army faithful who are now unanimously in favour of sacking Bruce.

Mike Ashley’s hopes of being promoted at the first time of asking would be dented hugely if he persisted with a manager who is clearly out of his depth in the modern day game, with Aston Villa fans sick of his excuses, poor results and awful brand of football during his time with them in the Championship.

Let’s not forget, as soon as fans are allowed back inside St James’ Park Bruce will no doubt feel the full wrath of the supporters. I struggle to see how we could keep him on if the worst were the happen.

Follow us on Twitter (@NUFCBlogcouk) and on Facebook HERE