Steve Bruce makes honest admission at Newcastle United

Bruce's side is 17th in the Premier League – and two points above the relegation zone – ahead of tonight’s game against Brighton and Hove Albion.

United's head coach was asked if he feared losing his job if third-bottom Fulham won and Newcastle lost this weekend.

“That decision will always be taken out of my hands,” said Bruce. “I only want what’s best for the club. Over the few months in particular, I haven’t been good enough to get the results that this club demands. I understand that. I will do my utmost to make sure the club stays in the Premier League. All the other stuff, I can’t influence that.”

Bruce has repeatedly stressed this season that he will not step down from his post.

“I’ll never walk away from the challenge, that’s for sure,” said Bruce.

Newcastle came from behind to claim a point from Aston Villa last weekend thanks to a 94th-minute equaliser from captain Jamaal Lascelles.

"The players deserved it for their attitude to keep going,” said Bruce. “They could have been on the floor with the hideous (own) goal we conceded, which was sheer bad luck – and we didn't deserve that. We had seven players in the box to try and salvage something."

Brighton are a place – and a point – above United in the table following their win over Southampton last weekend. Fulham were beaten 2-1 by Leeds United at Craven Cottage last night.

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