Steve Bruce praises Aston Villa's forgotten man Tommy Elphick

Injuries to John Terry and Chris Samba mean Elphick, who has started just nine Championship games since Bruce took charge at Villa Park in October last year, is suddenly back in contention.

The 30-year-old saw his first league action of the season in Villa’s recent 0-0 draw with Millwall and Bruce has not ruled out handing the former Bournemouth skipper a start over the hectic festive period.

Bruce has huge respect for the manner with which Elphick, who started last season as captain at Villa after joining in a £3million move from the Cherries, has dealt with personal disappointment over the last 12 months.

“Tommy is a good pro and you can see why he has been a captain at Bournemouth, he is very popular among at the players and at the training ground,” said Bruce.

“Things have not gone so well for him here. He has had the turmoil of two managers. The manager who brought him here has left.

“He has gone from captain of Aston Villa to not playing, which is tough on anyone.

“Thankfully he has been tough to see it through, mentally strong enough. Who knows? He might have a part to play, which would be great.

“He is a great lad, a very good professional. With the injuries we have, it might open the door for him.”

Elphick was one of several fringe players who failed to secure a move away from Villa during the summer transfer window.

Blues were keen on the centre-back but the rival clubs were unable to agree a fee.

“It is my hardest job,” said Bruce. “When the team is doing well, playing well, the ones who don’t play are always a problem.

“The ones you pick, they are no problem. It is the ones you don’t.

“Players want to play and certainly Tommy does. With the problems we have had, all of a sudden it has opened the door for him.”