Bruce: Newcastle can be happy still fighting for Europe

Former Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has given his verdict on their most recent Premier League game.

Ex-Magpies coach and former Manchester United defender Bruce was on punditry duty as the two teams played on Wednesday.

The Red Devils emerged as 3-2 winners at Old Trafford, but remain eighth in the table.

Bruce, working as a pundit for beIN Sports, said: "I expected it to be a little bit open because of the defensive problems both teams have got.

Unfortunately for Kieran Trippier his concentration levels weren't up with the rest of the team. I also think the two central defenders left the area very quickly too which left them a little bit exposed."

He then added on the Magpies's season: "This is what Newcastle want. They want to be on the big stage against the big boys and competing for Europe.

That's what they demand and that is what the demand has been. Of course, 20 years ago they are buying world record players like Alan Shearer to try to bridge that gap.

"Now they are on the rise again, they have been in the Champions League and are now fighting for Europe. They are on the rise again, that is pretty obvious for everybody."