Bruce launches stinging attack on Houllier

SUNDERLAND boss Steve Bruce has launched a broadside at his Aston Villa counterpart Gerard Houllier after losing star striker Darren Bent to the Frenchman.

A war of words has broken out between the two clubs since the 26-year-old England international completed a £24million move to Villa Park on Tuesday, barely two days after Bent submitted a transfer request.

Bruce was devastated to lose the man who spearheaded the Black Cats’ push for Europe this season after plundering 25 goals and furious about how the deal was done.