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Steve Bruce reveals the decision he nearly made after Newcastle exit as West Brom season finishes
West Brom boss Steve Bruce has admitted he thought about retiring after he left Newcastle United.
Bruce left the Magpies ‘by mutual consent’ in October.
Speaking after West Brom‘s season came to an end, Bruce made the admission that he considered finishing his career, but said he is now looking forward to the challenge of getting the Baggies where they want to be.
“I enjoy the challenge of what is upon us this summer, to try and put a team together that can mount a challenge.” Bruce told the Express & Star.
“When I left Newcastle I did think about retirement, I honestly did.
“I had a couple of opportunities before this one and said no to them, big opportunities too and I said no to them.
“But once I got the call from Ron (Ron Gourlay), who I’ve known a good few years, I fancied the challenge.”
In the end, Bruce could only guide West Brom to a 10th placed finish in the Championship table.
With struggling to turn West Brom’s fortunes around, and his time at Newcastle, Bruce admitted it had been the toughest campaign of his career.
“This has easily been the most difficult, easily the most difficult in 20 years,” Bruce said when asked how tough the season was.
“When you lose your job, it is always disappointing. However, I’ve really enjoyed this one, I’m glad I took it and I’ll do my utmost to try and get it back to where it wants to be.
Quiz: Are these 12 West Brom facts from this season real or fake?
“My regret is that wasn’t able to turn things around quick enough. I couldn’t arrest the slide. Did I try and do too much too quickly? Possibly, the decisions we made in the first month will bug me.
“But I’ve nearly had five promotions, I’m determined to make it a fifth if I can, let’s try. We’ve got a big summer ahead so let’s hope we can get the right players in.”
The Verdict
Anybody could see that Steve Bruce was having a really tough time at Newcastle United and perhaps it is best that things ended when they did.
Things had become somewhat toxic at St. James’ Park, with the relationship between Bruce and the Newcastle fans soured from almost the get-go.
Bruce must be glad he didn’t retire though, given he is relishing the challenge that is ahead of him at West Brom.
Given his track record of promotions, you certainly would not bet against him getting it right with the Baggies eventually.
