Blues dismiss Bruce Newcastle link

Birmingham have again moved to dismiss speculation linking Steve Bruce with the vacant managerial position at Newcastle.

The former Manchester United captain has been persistently linked with a return to his native north-east to become Sir Bobby Robson’s successor.

Steve McClaren, Alan Shearer and Terry Venables have all also been strongly linked with the post but Bruce remains a favourite with bookmakers.

But a statement released on the Birmingham website, www.bcfc.com, read: “It is categorically denied that our manager, Steve Bruce, is poised to quit his role at Birmingham City to join Newcastle, or that this board would consider any offer of compensation to release the manager from his recently signed five-year contract.

“The relationship between the club and the manager is a strong and loyal one. Both parties are focused on building upon the success already achieved and we are all committed to the future of the club.

“Whilst the club acknowledges that recent media speculation is a result of the manager and the club’s achievements, focus continues to be on delivering long-term success at Birmingham City Football Club.”