Steve Bruce confirmed as new Aston Villa manager
Steve Bruce has been appointed the new manager of Aston Villa, the club has confirmed.
The 55-year-old becomes the club's fourth permanent boss in less than 12 months, after his appointment was formally announced on Wednesday evening.
Bruce succeeds Roberto Di Matteo who was axed after just four months in charge with Villa 19th in the Championship.
Bruce said: "It's a wonderful opportunity. It is one of the big clubs of this country. To be given the opportunity to manage it is terrific.
"I relish the challenge of trying to take the Club where it wants to go and needs to be – and try to turn around the misfortune we seem to have had over the past few years. I am absolutely delighted to have been given the chance. I hope I can do my stuff."
Villa owner Dr Tony Xia said: "I'm delighted to welcome Steve to the football club. With his track record, not only at leading teams to promotion from the Championship but also vast experience in the Premier League, I believe we have secured the services of an excellent manager.
"I have had good conversations with Steve and we look forward to working with him."
Bruce was identified as the best man to lead the club back to the Premier League following a managerial search led by chief executive Keith Wyness and technical director Steve Round.
His backroom staff is yet to be confirmed, though Steve Clarke will not be part of it. Di Matteo's assistant, who was placed in caretaker charge following the Italian's exit, has himself now left the club after failing to land the position permanently.
Wyness said: "In the recent transfer window we focused on character, personality and experience.
"These three words can be applied in spades to Steve Bruce and I look forward to working closely with him as we turn the club around and get us back to where we all want to be."
