Spursex
Alert Team
He was tested in between by a Wigan side who occasionally barged and kicked the 22-year-old, but still produced enough moments of quality to leave his manager purring for the man he hopes will lead Villa back to the Premier League after a two-year absence from the top table.
“Considering what’s going on, for him and his family, he’s been a breath of fresh air,” said Bruce.
“Today was the reason the Premier League wants to buy him. He oozes that little bit of class, he’s such a natural footballer, you’d pay good money to come and watch him alone.
“The referees need to protect him; it’s a free for all, they’re kicking lumps out the kid but they’re kicking lumps out of him because he’s that good.
“Considering what’s going on, for him and his family, he’s been a breath of fresh air,” said Bruce.
“Today was the reason the Premier League wants to buy him. He oozes that little bit of class, he’s such a natural footballer, you’d pay good money to come and watch him alone.
“The referees need to protect him; it’s a free for all, they’re kicking lumps out the kid but they’re kicking lumps out of him because he’s that good.