Steve Bruce is facing two crucial games as he fights for his future, as Aston Villa prepare to appoint a new technical director.

Bruce has been coming under increasing pressure after a dismal start to the season and needs to win at least one of the games against Preston and Millwall to improve his hopes of staying in charge.

The 57-year-old has managed just one victory from the last nine games and faced chants for his dismissal from fans in the 1-1 draw at Bristol City on Friday.

While newly appointed chief executive Christian Purslow has been determined to maintain stability, Bruce’s position is under growing threat with the club struggling to kick-start their season.

Villa were always keen to give the former Sunderland manager until the October international break to assess the situation, following a slow start to the campaign.

A defeat at home to Preston, who are bottom of the Championship, on Tuesday night will only increase the clamour from supporters for a managerial change.