Hutton deal is absolute must – Bruce

STEVE Bruce wants to offer Alan Hutton a new contract, regardless of the division Villa are in next season.

The Scot has performed so well in recent weeks – man-marking Adama Traore out of the game in the play-off semi-final first-leg win at Middlesbrough – and playing out of position on the left side of defence throughout the season.

Bruce had suggested that Hutton’s only chance of extending his deal, would be if they win promotion.

But the manager has since confirmed that he wants the 33-yearold around next season, even if Villa remain in the Championship.

When asked if there was a possibility of a new deal if promotion was not achieved, Bruce replied: “Yes. If I get my way there will certainly be a contract offered to him.”

The only stumbling block is Villa’s financial situation. If they stay in the Championship, funds will be tight.

“I’ve continued to say this about Alan Hutton – he is everything I enjoy about a player,” Bruce said.

“He goes home, is one of the first in, and you can see his fitness levels at 34 are quite remarkable. He’s been terrific.”

Bruce has backed his players to handle the pressure of the play-offs.

“It’s a big club, history and tradition and you need big players,” he said.

“The ones we have brought in: (Ahmed) Elmohamady, John Terry, Mile Jedinak, all people who have bought the T-shirt and you know they will not get fazed.”

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