The next in line to Sir Bobby Robson's throne it seemed. Rumours of Birmingham's Bruce taking over were pretty persistent throughout the former England manager's final two seasons at St James' Park. For one reason or another however, nothing ever materialised. Bruce was offered the job after Freddy Shepherd unceremoniously sacked on of, if not the greatest manager in The Magpies' history. However, he'd given his word to Davids Gold and Sullivan at St Andrews and couldn't leave the Midlands club. The current Hull City boss told the Mirror: I maybe have some regrets not taking it - what might have been. "Youll always think what could have been. A lot of us in football have what ifs... Ill get some stick, I suppose. I dont think theyll forget where I used to manage. "I hope its better than the last time I went there -they beat us by five and I remember that one vividly. I was very, very close when Sir Bobby went. Id just given my word to Birmingham and signed a new contract, so I couldnt just leave. It was a difficult time. I didnt think I could go back on my word, but it was close. Ive always kept an eye on Newcastle. Being a Geordie, it was the club I supported as a boy.
