Aston Villa pay their condolences to manager Steve Bruce after his father passes away
Bruce's son, Alex, revealed the tragic news on Twitter and also confirmed his grandmother is seriously ill
ASTON VILLA have paid their condolences to manager Steve Bruce after his father, Joe, sadly passed away this morning.
The tragic news came as a major shock to Bruce who had been caring for his "seriously ill" mother.
Bruce's son, Alex, revealed the news on Twitter.
He wrote: "Unfortunately my Grandad passed away this morning, it's been a terrible few days as my Gran was taken seriously ill last Monday and is in hospital.
"My Dad is in need of a few days to get over this shock and I hope his privacy is respected at this tough time. Thanks."
And Aston Villa also paid tribute by writing: "The thoughts of everyone at Aston Villa are with out manager Steve Bruce and his family, following the passing of his father.
"The club would like to offer our condolences and kindly request that the family's privacy is respected at this difficult time."
Aston Villa head into their clash with Midland rivals Birmingham on Sunday on the back of six straight wins in the league.
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Their form has catapulted the club up to third in the league, just one point off Derby sitting one place above them in an automatic promotion spot.
Birmingham travel to Villa Park in form of their own having won their last two league matches.