Wigan expect Bruce to stay

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan is confident Steve Bruce would reject any approach from Newcastle if they came calling for him.

Northumberland-born Bruce has been mentioned as a possible candidate to succeed Kevin Keegan at St James' Park.

Bruce has done a marvellous job at Wigan since returning to the club 10 months ago and he is establishing himself as one of the best young managers in the top flight.

Whelan believes Bruce would have no inclination to swap the Latics for Newcastle due to the current situation the Magpies find themselves in with owner Mike Ashley looking to sell the troubled Tyneside outfit.

Asked if he would tell Ashley where to go if he came calling for Bruce, Whelan said: "I don't think I would have to do that.

"I think Steve Bruce would say that because I've such a fantastic relationship with him.

"One day he will get a big-four job - I realise that, and I think the whole country realises he is one of the best four managers in the world.

"Sooner or later one of the big four clubs will come for Steve, and he knows I would never stand in his way, no matter where he wanted to go.

High respect

"I have such high respect for him, and hopefully he has that for me and the club, and I'm sure he has.

"But if Newcastle came, I think you would get Steve telling them what to do very quickly.

"I know Newcastle is where he comes from, and I know he did want to manage Newcastle at one time.

"But now, with what is going on up there, I think it would frighten a lot of people, and I'm sure it wouldn't excite him to go up there at present.

"If he did, he would be made welcome because he is such a great manager, but I think when we lose him he will go to one of the big four."

Source - Yahoo! Sport / Eurosport