Express & Star

Steve Bruce hands Aston Villa players extended rest ahead of Blades clash

Steve Bruce confirmed Villa’s players will be given extra time off this week to recuperate for the next stage of their promotion push.

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Villa’s early exit from the FA Cup means they do not return to action until next Tuesday’s trip to Sheffield United.

With his team nicely positioned in fourth thanks to a four-game winning streak, Bruce will give every player either three or four days off to ensure they are in the best possible condition for the clash at Bramall Lane.

The manager opted not to risk Mile Jedinak for Saturday’s 3-1 win over Barnsley with the midfielder having only recently returned to training following a thigh injury.

Bruce also revealed James Chester had played despite suffering with illness.

He said: “James played with the flu really and he looked like it towards the end.

“All my staff have been sick, my doctor’s had it, my second in command has had it, the staff have had it, they’ve all had it!

“It’s the ideal time to give everyone three or four days off in preparation for Sheffield United.”

Bruce has meanwhile confirmed Villa decided against a move for Robin van Persie this month because he did not want to further increase the average age of his squad.

The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker rejoined boyhood club Feyenoord on Friday after having his contract with Fenerbache torn up.

But the 34-year-old was put to Villa a few weeks ago and Bruce seriously considered a move before deciding against.

Villa’s squad already contains a number of veteran players including Glenn Whelan, Mile Jedinak and John Terry.

“He was wanting to come out of Turkey and we looked at it long and hard,” Bruce explained. “It’s not often you get the availability of somebody like Robin van Persie.

“At the moment, with what we’ve got in that position and the amount of 30-year-olds we’ve got I just decided that it’s better we look elsewhere. I wish him the best of luck. It was an interesting couple of days!”