Sheff Weds taking ‘legal advice’ after Newcastle announce Bruce

Sheffield Wednesday are taking “legal advice” after Newcastle United confirmed Steve Bruce as their new manager on Wednesday.

The Magpies have confirmed that the 58-year-old Geordie has left his job at Wednesday to become the 10th permanent boss of controversial owner Mike Ashley’s 12-year-plus reign and has signed a three-year deal.

Newcastle’s announcement, however, appeared to come as a surprise to the Owls, who insisted legal aspects of Bruce’s departure remained unresolved.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “The club is disappointed to learn via public statement issued by Newcastle United that it has appointed former Sheffield Wednesday staff Steve Bruce, Steve Agnew and Steve Clemence.

“Regardless of the fact that the staff resigned from their positions with the club on Monday, there remains outstanding legal issues to be resolved between the club and the staff and Newcastle United. The club is currently considering its position and taking the appropriate legal advice.

“No further comment will be made by the club concerning this matter.”

Not convinced by the arrival of Bruce at Newcastle? These stats are unlikely to sway you…