Damning new claims explain why Mike Ashley has refused to sack Steve Bruce so far?

Considering we went 11 without a win last season and were forced to watch some absolutely turgid football at times, many were surprised that even the unpredictable Mike Ashley didn't sack Steve Bruce earlier this year.

Fast forward over six month, The Times have released a report that may well explain why the NUFC owner had no interest in pulling the trigger.

According to the report, the initial three-year deal Steve Bruce signed back in 2019 “is automatically renewed and extended to its original length” every summer.

As a result, the 60-year-old is entitled to a £4m payoff should Mike Ashley decide to change manager.

Given his long-standing lack of interest in Newcastle United, recent eagerness to sell and claims that the club have no money to spend, you can start to see why he'd rather not part with another few million.

The Times state that Bruce has been left hugely frustrated by our failure to land Hamza Choudhury on loan last week, yet they should take a look at the NUFC fanbase if they want to see what genuine frustration really looks like.

Boos spread around St James' Park during and after our 2-2 draw with Southampton before the international break, with many calling for Steve Bruce's head in what was another abysmal performance.

Sadly, however, it seems Ashley has no intention of letting his man go - especially when he'd have to fork out £4m...