Newcastle United players 'determined to save Steve Bruce from sack'

The Newcastle United first-team squad reportedly want Steve Bruce to retain his role as manager at St James' Park.

At a time when the Magpies could be taken over by a Saudi Arabia-based consortium, a number of high-profile names have been linked with replacing Bruce in the dugout.

However, despite talk of a potential arrival for ex-Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino, The Sun claims that Bruce has received backing from his players.

The report claims that there is a 'determination' within the group to ensure that Bruce remains at the helm past the end of this season.

In his first campaign, Bruce has helped guide the North-East outfit into 13th position, eight points above the relegation zone.

Newcastle have also reached the FA Cup quarter-finals, where they will host Manchester City.