Bruce in salute to Everton’s success

STEVE BRUCE has admitted that envy Birmingham have failed to live up to expectations this season as he saluted the achievements of his Everton counterpart David Moyes ahead of today’s Goodison Park clash.

Bruce believes Moyes should be a strong contender for the manager of the year award if the Toffees complete a remarkable turn-around in fortunes by securing Champions League football.

There was optimism that Blues could also challenge for a European spot in 2004-2005 after finishing 10th last season, before long-term injuries to the likes of Mikael Forssell, David Dunn, Muzzy Izzet and Stan Lazaridis dented those hopes.