Steve Bruce has advised Jack Grealish to stop his public displays of frustration whenever things aren’t going well for him for Aston Villa.
The Midlands club have enjoyed an upturn in fortune since Bruce was installed as manager in October, with fears of relegation being replaced with optimism of a promotion push. However, their chances of earning at least a top-six place were dented on Monday, when they lost 1-0 at a Cardiff City side which is fighting the drop from the second-tier.
T his result leaves Villa, relegated from the Premier League last season, seven points from the top-six. It was a particularly disappointing afternoon for midfield star Grealish, who failed to inspire his side and often cut a frustrated figure. Bruce ,though, has a word of warning for the highly-rated 21-year-old who he also feels needs more protection.
“They have kicked him from pillar to post in both games,” said the Villa Park boss. “The referees have to have the courage to protect him, that’s the first thing. But Jack needs to learn not to react. We’re English and we don’t want players throwing their arms up in the air when they’re tackled or think decisions have gone against them.”
