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Newcastle United have confirmed Steve Bruce as new head coach to replace Rafael Benítez. The 58-year-old signed a three-year contract with Newcastle after quitting Sheffield Wednesday.
Before Sheffield, Bruce has had spells at Hull and Aston Villa.
Speaking to Newcastle’s website, Bruce said: “I’m delighted and incredibly proud to be appointed as head coach of Newcastle United. This is my boyhood club and it was my dad’s club, so this is a very special moment for me and my family.
“There is a huge challenge ahead of us, but it’s one that my staff and I are ready for. We’ll roll our sleeves up and we’ll be giving it everything from the off to ensure supporters have a successful team that they can be proud of.”
Lee Charnley, Newcastle’s managing director, said: “Steve has a deep affection for Newcastle United and we are very pleased that a coach with his vast experience and connections to the club and city has joined us.”
Bruce and his assistants Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence will now travel to China, where the club face Wolves in a friendly later tonight and play another match on Saturday.
Benítez who left Newcastle at the end of his contract has joined the Chinese Super League club Dalian Yifang.