Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley won't consider axing manager Steve Bruce.

Defeat at Brighton has Newcastle two points above the dropzone.

The Northern Echo says Ashley feels sympathy towards Bruce behind the scenes.

It's claimed he feels sorry for the Toon boss believing the club's misfortunes started with the government lockdowns back in December.

Newcastle were forced to shut down during that period and Bruce believes the mounting injury crisis can be attributed to that little break.

Ashley was abroad carrying out business obligations as Newcastle were beaten by Brighton.

And he's currently eager to give Bruce time to turn things around and won't be making a managerial change over the next international break.

It would cost Newcastle around £4million if they are to part ways with the 60-year-old.

And while Ashley has had private conversations with the club's senior executive team, they'll be sticking instead of twisting for the time being.