Newcastle United journalist Liam Kennedy insists that there is no point discussing replacements for Steve Bruce, because the club are more than happy with his performance following a 4-2 defeat against West Ham on the opening day of the Premier League season.

A number of pundits have suggested potential alternatives to Bruce in recent weeks and months.

Newcastle endured a mixed season last term and ultimately finished the campaign in 12^th, although their results left a lot to be desired at points throughout the campaign.

Between December 16th and April 11^th, Newcastle played 20 games and won just three; they lost 11 and drew six. That included a run of losses that saw them score just twice in five games and concede 10.

However, Kennedy believes that those within the club are quite satisfied with the way the former Manchester United defender is operating in the job, and believes that is a damning indictment of Mike Ashley’s ownership of the club.

He said: “All this talk, all the pundits out there can name names all they want but I just believe the feeling from those at the top of the club, the people who gave him the job, I think they’re quite happy with Steve Bruce’s performance.

“But that’s a symptom of Mike Ashley’s Newcastle United, that mediocrity is celebrated.”

Newcastle kick off their Premier League campaign this weekend against West Ham United.