Villa exit looming for Ross

STEVE BRUCE is ready to listen to offers for Ross McCormack after leaving the striker out of Aston Villa’s squad for their pre-season trip to Germany.

The Scot, 30, was left behind by Bruce – along with fellow midfielder Gary Gardner – signalling that he will be overlooked by Villa’s boss this season.

Sunderland are known to be keen on the player who cost £12million from Fulham 12 months ago.

It is not known if Villa will accept an offer to take the striker on loan or if they will demand a fee.

Villa owner Tony Xia has made it clear that he wants to recoup as much money as possible through sales because of the pressure facing the club over Financial Fair Play regulations.

The forward played during last week’s friendly defeat by Shrewsbury Town but did not feature in the goalless draw against Walsall in midweek.