NEWCASTLE owner Amanda Staveley has issued a grovelling apology to former boss Steve Bruce.
Staveley claimed last week that Bruce “didn’t even want to come to work” when she bought the Magpies with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in October 2021.
Bruce left after just one game following the takeover with an £8million payout before Eddie Howe arrived.
Speaking at the Bloomberg Power Players’ Summit in Jeddah, Staveley was speaking about the state of the club when she arrived.
She said: “We had few commercial revenues, we had a team that was ageing, a fan base that was angry, and a coach who basically didn't even want to come to work.”
Man Utd back-up goalkeeper Martin Dubravka recalled by Newcastle
But Staveley backtracked on Instagram, saying: “I would like to clarify a comment I made during a recent speaking engagement.
“While commenting on Newcastle United at the time of the club’s change in ownership I suggested the club had a coach who did not want to come to work.
“This suggestion was not correct; Steve Bruce was fully committed to his role at the club and always came to work during this period.
“I would like to make my intention to question or undermine the professionalism of Steve, who was always professional throughout my deals with him and committed to achieving the best for Newcastle United.
“I am happy to clarify my comments and I offer an apology to Steve for my comments and any unintended consequences.”
CHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS - BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL
Bruce was replaced by Howe within just a few weeks of Newcastle's Saudi takeover.
The Magpies finished fourth in the Premier League table last season and qualified for the Champions League.