Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce: Bring on Wolves challenge

Bruce's charges head to Molineux having won their last four games in the Championship.

They are seventh in the table after 11 games while the hosts are second.

"It's obvious that we had a disappointing start, we had an awful August," said Bruce.

"September was terrific and it's important now, over the next five games, we keep ourselves where we are - in and around it at the top end of the league.

"Let's be fair, that's where we all have aspirations to be.

"Our form in September has been excellent and now we need that same desire in the winter months."

Bruce is wary of Wolves' attacking talent - the likes of Portuguese youngster Diogo Jota - but his own forwards such as Albert Adomah are in fine form at the moment.

"Wolves have got off to a good start, invested heavily over the last 12-18 months - there has been huge change," he said.

"At the top end of the pitch - the three forward players - they are a threat.

"They play a certain way - three at the back - and I don't think that will change.

"They have an experienced manager and seem to have settled down a bit. I expect them to be there or thereabouts with the players they have got - a big rival, big game, big derby.

"The Villa fans take themselves away in thousands. It's two big clubs steeped in history and tradition and at the right end of the table too.

"Bring it on, that's what we are in football for. It should be a fantastic game."

Villa will be without left-back Neil Taylor as he is suspended.

Bruce also provided an update on his injured quintet - Mile Jedinak (groin), Henri Lansbury (knee), Jack Grealish (kidney), Andre Green (hamstring) and Gabby Agbonlahor (calf).

"The one we can't pick is Taylor and Gabby is still struggling," he added.

"Lansbury and Grealish joined in with full training yesterday, their first training session in weeks.

"They are just around the corner to come back in, which can only be a good thing.

"Jack has been out a long time with his kidney so it's good to see him back.

"Andre is making good progress, but still a long way off. Jedinak is the same, making good progress.

"He has stepped up again and it's an important time for him."