Steve Bruce has been assured his job is safe at Aston Villa and insists he remains “absolutely convinced” that he can mount a revival.

Bruce is under growing scrutiny from supporters after a dreadful run of six defeats in seven league games which has ended Villa’s slim hopes of reaching the play-offs.

Villa gave Bruce over £20 million to spend in the January transfer window yet some fans fear a second successive relegation scrap. But Bruce has been assured he has the full support of owner Tony Xia and is targeting a dramatic improvement, ahead of tonight’s trip to Newcastle.

Bruce said: “He has messaged me his support. I think he is desperate for me to turn it round. He understands. What we don’t understand is the run we are on.