Bruce takes no pride in Blues’ plight

STEVE Bruce will take no pride in adding to Blues’ woes, despite admitting his only concern is taking maximum points from the Second City derby.

Villa take on their arch enemies at Villa Park on Sunday knowing a win will inflict further misery on their relegationthreatened rivals.

Bruce knows all about this particular derby, having managed at St Andrew’s for six seasons, and agreed it’s sad to see his old side enduring such difficult times as they sit three points above the drop zone with three games remaining.

But he stressed: “All my thoughts are with the club I manage now and the city itself.’’

Asked whether he found Blues’ plight sad, he replied: “Of course.”

Bruce remains respectful of his former club where he experienced promotion and Premier League football for the first time as a manager.

Turning around the claret and blue side of the city is of paramout importance now, though, after a season of disappointment.

Sunday’s derby takes on extra significance with Blues struggling in 20th place in the Championship and a defeat will drag them deeper into the mire.

Villa lost two games in the space of 48 hours over Easter and are now on a run of three without a win.

Bruce knows he will have no trouble lifting his players for the eagerly-anticipated game this weekend and praised the supporters for sticking by his side.

“I don’t think there will be a problem motivating the players. It will be about the ones who keep their heads,” he said.

“It’s a fantastic derby, it’s got a fantastic edge to it and, of course, with the result (for Blues on Monday) it adds more spice to it.

“It’s a great game for us towards the end of the season. There’s all to play for. I’m looking forward to it immensely.

“There’s nothing better than a Blues-Villa derby. I can’t wait.”