Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman believes the newly-promoted sides to the Premier League will be 'rubbing their hands' at the current situation at Newcastle United.
The 38-year-old reckons that Sheffield United, Aston Villa and Norwich City will have been boosted by the current uncertainty and discontent on Tyneside.
Steve Bruce has been appointed as United's head coach but the reaction from fans have been far from positive - adding to an already toxic atmosphere following the departure of Rafa Benitez.
United have lost Ayoze Perez and Salomon Rondon - their two top goalscorers from last season - and have yet to replace either one, which is only fueling concern.
Speaking to BBC 5Live, Osman said: "I tell you something, I bet you those teams that have just come up, your Norwich's, Sheff United's and Villa's are rubbing their hands together at this situation that's happening at Newcastle.
"It's hard enough for these to come up from the Championship and establish themselves, stay in the league and Wolves did it terrifically. But the last 10 years or so, it's been difficult.
"But Newcastle look like they are shooting themselves in the foot here. Just giving the others a big boost and real opportunity of staying in the league.
"It's been a very troubling summer - nothing that wasn't expecting as everyone knew Rafa Benitez's contract was running out.
"They're selling players. Things are just looking really bleak at the moment.
"I think it's a bit harsh on Steve Bruce - yes he's been out of the Premier League for a few seasons but he's a Geordie lad, he loves the club, a Newcastle supporter."
