Graeme Jones would remain at Newcastle United even if Steve Bruce left the club, Chronicle Live journalist Lee Ryder has been informed. 

The lowdown

Former Luton Town boss Jones was appointed as an assistant to Bruce back in January.

Newcastle forward Callum Wilson says he's 'complemented' Steve Bruce because he's a 'little bit more tactically aware and up to date'.

Jones was also part of Gareth Southgate's England set-up in the summer, helping the Three Lions reach the final of the European Championships.

The latest

Ryder was asked in a fan Q&A whether Jones would be the 'ideal replacement' in the event of Bruce's departure.

In reply, he said: "We're told that Graeme Jones has assurances that he would not be part of any type of backroom clear-out should Newcastle decide to change boss."

He adds that Jones is 'popular with the players' and acknowledges that another benefit of appointing him would be avoiding the need to pay another club a compensation fee.

But he also cautious that 'it's never easy stepping up' to become the 'main man'.

There's also an intriguing suggestion that 'Jones may also be keeping an eye on' the situation at FC Barcelona.

If Ronald Koeman is axed and Roberto Martinez is appointed, 'there could be a possible reunion' between the coaches who worked together at Swansea City, Wigan Athletic and Everton.

"Few would turn that role down," Ryder says.

The verdict

The question of whether Jones could succeed Bruce is largely academic for the time being, because the incumbent's position is thought to be secure.

What's more interesting is whether Jones could have his head turned. If Newcastle value him highly, would they offer him incentives to stay put? And how would that change the dynamics at the club?

In other news, this man came under fire for his performance against Watford