By Ben Wild

21st Mar, 2021 | 1:11pm

Sources: Newcastle stars plot face-to-face Charnley talks after 'shock' manager twist today

Newcastle United stars have discussed demanding face-to-face Lee Charnley talks after being left in “shock” at the club backing Steve Bruce on Sunday, Football Insider can reveal.

This morning, Sky Sports reported that Bruce retains the backing of owner Mike Ashley due to Bruce’s loyalty to the club.

A Newcastle source has told Football Insider that several first-team players have reacted to this update by discussing whether they should go direct to Newcastle’s managing director Lee Charnley after losing all faith in Bruce.

The subject of this meeting wouldn’t be to demand Bruce’s sacking as some players want more general answers about what can change in order to avoid relegation.

Some first team players expected Bruce to be relieved of his duties after last night’s poor showing and there was a feeling of genuine shock when this morning’s reports about Bruce’s future came to light.

As it stands there has been no decision made on whether this meeting with Charnley should go ahead as some players feel it would likely be unproductive.

Newcastle were on the end of a disappointing 3-0 loss to fellow strugglers Brighton on Saturday evening as fans demanded an end to the Bruce era at St James’ Park.

The Magpies have won just two of their last 20 games in all competitions and with Fulham improving there is a very real threat of relegation.

Newcastle sit one place above the relegation zone and have a game in hand on Fulham below them.

The Magpies are next in action against Tottenham after the international break as they look to end their awful run of form.

In other Newcastle United news, this pundit believes Joelinton is scaring off potential buyers of the club.