Sign up NOW for our daily Villa newsletter direct to your inbox Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Steve Bruce could turn to Tommy Elphick to tighten up his defence when Aston Villa visit Nottingham Forest tomorrow evening.

The horror-show at Brentford in midweek left the manager reeling and changes are expected after Villa were carved open at the back.

New signings James Bree and Neil Taylor could also come into the full-back positions at the expense of Alan Hutton and Jordan Amavi.

“Baker and Chester, until Tuesday, were playing really well, but they didn’t live up to their standards (in the 3-0 defeat) and they know that themselves,” Bruce said.

“Tommy now comes straight into the equation because he’s been there, done it and experienced it at the right time.

“He’s a very good type so you’re always edging towards him. He’s been immaculate in his approach to everything since I arrived.

“He’s trained every day as if it’s his last, he’s been fantastic and if everyone was like Tommy Elphick, my job would be easy.”

Bruce has spoken highly of the centre-half ever since he arrived but the former Bournemouth man has played him second fiddle to Baker and Chester throughout.

“You know he hasn’t really moaned even thought I’ve picked people ahead of him which is disappointing for him," added the boss.

“The way he has behaved is exemplary so fair play to him because it hasn’t been easy.

“I know what I was like when I wasn’t playing. It didn’t happen very often but when it did I was a pain in the ****

“So was my first-team coach, Clem (Stephen Clemence), he was the worse ever!”