New Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce laughs off his Birmingham City past
Steve Bruce laughed off his Birmingham City past as he was unveiled as Aston Villa's new manager.
The 55-year-old spent six years in charge at St Andrews between 2001 and 2007 but believes his association with his new club's rivals can quickly be forgotten.
Making reference to the "potato head" nickname given him by Villa fans, he said: "I have been used to being called potato head for the last 20 years. I always took it as a compliment!
"I have lived in the area for 15 years. This club has huge support which would attract any manager.
"We didn't even discuss the past (Blues). I hope I can bring success. The challenge alone was the resounding factor."
Villa currently sit 19th in the Championship table having won just one of their opening 11 league games, a record which saw Roberto Di Matteo sacked after just four months in charge.
And Bruce added: "This is arguably the biggest club I have managed and the biggest challenge because of the expectation.
"You can't deny the stats. Winning four games out of 54 is awful. When you see the squad we have, we are capable of challenging."
