Speaking on the Die For Three Points Podcast, Steve Bruce has been discussing some of his signings at Newcastle United and Callum Wilson.
Say what you will about Bruce at Newcastle, but it has to be said that some of his signings were, in hindsight, absolutely brilliant.
Indeed, while the likes of Joelinto and Joe Willock weren’t always brilliant during Bruce’s tenure, they’re now finding their feet under Eddie Howe.
One other player that has followed that trajectory is Callum Wilson, and according to Bruce, he had to go to war with Mike Ashley to get the signing of the striker over the line.
Bruce had to fight for Wilson
The ex-Newcastle boss spoke about signing Wilson at the time.
“I have to say, Newcastle have bought well. It’s alright having all that money, but when I was there we were relying on Almiron, he wasn’t scoring, but I picked him every week. The big decision was with Joelinton, we spent a lot of money on him, but he was never a centre-forward, he wasn’t a goalscorer like Callum Wilson was,” Bruce said.
“Let me tell you, the loggerheads I had with Mike Ashley. Everyone thought I was lovey-lovey with Mike, but to get Callum Wilson over the line it was practically war. He was 29, he had the odd injury, big money and he broke the wage bracket at the time as well.
Worth it
It may have been a hassle for Bruce to get Wilson to St James’ Park, but it’s fair to say that his efforts were worth it.
Wilson’s goals helped Newcastle stay up back in the 2020/21 season, while his good form this term has helped the Tyneside club get in and amongst the Champions League battle.
Bruce may not have been the best of managers for Newcastle, but he did make a fantastic signing in the shape of Wilson.