Steve Bruce putting his faith in Aston Villa's youth

James Bree, Keinan Davis, and Andre Green have all impressed the boss in recent weeks, despite being just 19-years-old.

Tottenham loanee Josh Onomah, who is just one year older, has also caught the eye in midfield.

Their committed and physical performances have lifted them above more experienced and more expensive team-mates in the pecking order.

And with two days of the window left, it’s encouraged Bruce to keep his hand in his pocket.

“I thought it was the way forward and what I have now seen I’m convinced it is the way forward,” said Bruce. “I can’t spend millions. So it is the way forward.”

Bruce admits he’s found it difficult to get the same sort of commitment from his senior players.

“The one thing about any team I have had to manage, is that to play for me you have to put your boots on and it give it your all,” he said. “I have found it difficult to instill that here.”

Which is why he’s decided to turn to youth, but when he was asked if it would be difficult to keep the youngsters grounded, he said: “It is my job (to keep them grounded). Young players go up and down and I am aware of that.

“The supporters went home happy on Friday because their team showed something. It wasn’t great and it wasn’t a classic but they rolled their sleeves up and got something out of the game.

“For me it has been missing for far too long.”

Meanwhile, exiled midfielder Gary Gardner has been told he can leave Villa Park on loan in the next two days.