Steve Bruce recalls Asamoah Gyan’s ‘music doctor’ plea after Sunderland heavy defeat to Newcastle

Split image: left shows a male footballer in a red-and-white striped jersey celebrating with raised arms; right shows an older man in a black zip-up jacket smiling.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka July 2, 2026

Former Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has shared a humorous story involving Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan and a self-described “music doctor” ahead of a Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United.

Bruce said Gyan had approached him before the match with an unusual request, claiming that bringing the music doctor into the squad would help Sunderland secure victory over their rivals.

The former Black Stars captain reportedly told his manager that the team would win if the man was allowed to travel with them.

Bruce agreed, but the plan did not produce the desired result as Sunderland suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Newcastle.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Bruce said Gyan returned to him after the match with another request.

“Asamoah came to me afterwards and said, ‘Can the music doctor come back with me?’” Bruce recalled.

“I said, ‘I will throw them off the River Tyne!’”

Gyan joined Sunderland from French side Rennes in 2010 and quickly became a fan favourite at the Stadium of Light, scoring 11 goals in 34 appearances during his first season.

The former Ghana captain later moved to Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates, where he became one of Africa’s most prolific forwards.

While Gyan’s goals brought Sunderland supporters plenty to celebrate, Bruce’s story suggests the striker also brought a memorable sense of humour to the dressing room.