Marcelo Bielsa delivers Newcastle United 'compliment' to Steve Bruce after latest defeat

The pair spoke after Leeds United beat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’s Park last night. Bruce’s side, energised by the introduction of substitute Allan Saint-Maximin, pushed hard for an equaliser after Jack Harrison scored what would turn out to be the visitors’ winning goal.

Asked about his conversation with Bielsa, Bruce said: “He was very complimentary about our team, and said we deserved more. I thanked him for that. He acknowledged that we played very well.”

In his post-match press conference, Bielsa said: "We expected a difficult game. There was a 20-minute spell after Jack Harrison's goal where it was difficult to control the game. For us it was a game we needed to win, and it was very difficult, but we managed to do it.”

Newcastle, without a win in 11 games, are 16th in the Premier League.