Bruce's job safe for time being

Under-pressure Birmingham manager Steve Bruce is to remain in the job – at least for the immediate future.

Bruce held talks today over the telephone with club chairman David Gold and co-owner David Sullivan after the 1-0 defeat by Norwich at St Andrews last night.

It is understood no ultimatum was issued to Bruce but he is acutely aware results must improve if he wants to remain in the role he has occupied for the past five years.

Blues have a trio of derby matches on the horizon against Derby, West Brom and Coventry which could decide his future.

The former Manchester United captain reiterated his determination to Sullivan and Gold to turn around Birmingham’s fortunes despite growing unrest amongst supporters.

A small band of fans chanted ’We want Bruce out’ in the closing stages of the defeat against the Canaries.

That setback resulted in Birmingham dropping down to ninth position in the Coca-Cola Championship and they have collected just two points from the last 15.

Bruce had described his team’s performance as “a horror show” in his after-match press conference yesterday but he was making no public comment today.

However, it is understood Bruce is poised to recall the likes of captain Damien Johnson, now free to play after a three-match ban, and fit-again midfielder Stephen Clemence for the visit to Pride Park.

Bruce was horrified at the way his more experienced players failed to stand up and be counted when the going got tough against Norwich, now under the guidance of Peter Grant after the dismissal of Nigel Worthington.