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Football news: Steve Bruce forced to watch from the stands for Newcastle vs West Ham

Steve Bruce has finally got the chance to see his Newcastle United side in action up close, as he was present for their Barclays Asia Trophy clash against West Ham United.

But life at the Toon got off to a stumbling start for Bruce who was forced to watch from the stands inside the Hongkou Stadium in Shanghai.

Bruce was officially appointed as Rafa Benitez's replacement on Wednesday, but was forced to rush out to China where his side are currently on tour.

Steve Bruce was forced to watch the game from inside the ground due to visa restrictions alongside coaches Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence
Bruce looks on from inside the ground before Newcastle's clash with West Ham

In the hurry he was unable to get a working visa, only securing a visitors one, and as as such was unable to take official charge of the match.