Graeme Jones to take charge of Newcastle's next two games after Steve Bruce exit

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Jones was the only manager to take over Luton Town during the 2019-20 season.

Graeme Jones, Newcastle interim boss, said he was upset to see Steve Bruce go but is now focusing on preparing the team the next two matches.

Bruce was dismissed on Wednesday, with Newcastle losing and the Premier League at second bottom.

Jones will be responsible for Saturday's visit to Crystal Palace as well as the visit to Chelsea next week.

He said, "Initially I was upset to tell the truth, but I had a great working relationship" with Steve.

Jones said: "So, initially, Wednesday was difficult. But, we all know how fast football is, so we had to move. Because if you miss one session, you're behind. We had to get the boys prepared for the game.

"I spoke with the owners Wednesday morning, and they asked me to assume the team's interim role for the two remaining games." "I'm fully focused on getting the team ready for these games."

Part-owner Amanda Staveley, along with the Saudi-Arabian backed consortium, completed the buyout of the club earlier in the month. They made a decision about Bruce's future following Sunday's 3-2 defeat at Tottenham. This was Bruce's 1,000th game under management.

Paulo Fonseca, the former Roma boss, has been in talks about Bruce's succession but it is not yet clear if a decision will be made.

Jones, 51-year-old Gateshead native, says he is a Newcastle fan from his youth, but that he has been professional in the preparations for the match at Selhurst Park.

He said, "I'm motivated more than anywhere else I've ever been," "I am familiar with the club's culture and I'm determined to do my best."

Martin Dubravka, goalkeeper for Spurs, is the only one who is absent due to injury. Jonjo Shelvey has been suspended following his red card against Spurs.