Bruce defends Johnson after horror tackle

BIRMINGHAM manager Steve Bruce has hit out at claims from Austrian defender Emanuel Pogatetz that Damien Johnson tried to break his leg during Wednesday’s international with Northern Ireland in Vienna.

Blues midfielder Johnson was dismissed for a rash tackle on Middlesbrough left-back Pogatetz, who was also red carded for retaliating to the challenge.

Pogatetz claimed afterwards: “My way of reacting was strong but appropriate. Without a shinpad, my leg would have been damaged totally.