Bruce facing chop at Villa
STEVE BRUCE could be just three games from the sack at struggling Aston Villa.
The under-fire boss is in a desperate fight to save his job after a terrible start to the season.
Villa began their Championship campaign as title favourites but one point from three games has left angry fans demanding answers.
Chinese owner Dr Tony Xia is trying to rally to Bruce’s aid by bringing in at least one new player, but it is the reaction of supporters which could end up sealing the manager’s fate.
Around 4,000 travelling fans vented their fury following the 2-1 defeat at Reading, which came four days after a 3-0 thumping at Cardiff.
There are now just three games before the international break – a traditional danger time
for the trigger to be pulled. Saturday’s tricky home game with Norwich is followed by a Carabao Cup clash with Wigan and then a trip to Bristol City in the televised Friday night game.
If their current form continues they could be bottom by then and that could be curtains for the boss who was appointed last October.
Bruce knows he’s up against it, saying: “I’m the right man to turn it around, but whether or not I’m given time is not for me to answer.”
The former Manchester United defender says his players are struggling to handle playing for the Midlands club, adding “The enormity of Aston Villa comes into play.
“Some have shied away from it. They have to grasp the nettle too.
“We have to match the expectation. I will see what a few people are made off. We’re up against it and you judge everyone.”