Newcastle boss Bruce: Why I went with Wilson over Watkins | OneFootball

Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has revealed why he chose to sign Callum Wilson over Ollie Watkins.

Wilson scored on debut in Saturday's win over West Ham United following his summer move from Bournemouth.

And Bruce was asked after the game why he decided to pursue Wilson over Watkins, who joined Aston Villa from Brentford last week.

Asked why he turned down players like Watkins - via the Chronicle - Bruce said: "A lot of forwards?

"I'm not sure there were. Like who?"

When Watkins was put to Bruce he then said: "Well yeah, look I tried to take Callum from Coventry a few years ago.

"But I have watched his career. There is something about the lad that I enjoy watching.

"He moves well. He is a goalscorer and works tirelessly for the team.

"I am delighted to have got him. More importantly Callum wanted to play for Newcastle and that always helps.

"That was the situation."