June 1 2001

Bruce - firm discipline

Newly-appointed manager Steve Bruce has promised firm discipline from his players after being appointed Eagles manager yesterday.

Bruce's predecessor Alan Smith was criticised for being too hard on players who stepped out of line during his time at the club.

Neil Ruddock, Jamie Pollock and Andy Linighan were all shown the door after falling out with Smith and younger players like Jamie Smith, Hayden Mullins and Clinton Morrison also had run ins with Smith last season.

Bruce however, said has promised his players a firm hand when they return for pre-season training.

He said: "I believe in firm discipline. If there is none, it ruins your plans. I want the players here to mirror what I have achieved.

"I got to the very top of the game on very little ability because I worked hard."

Also today, Dean Austin is said to have agreed a new two-year contract with The Eagles after talks with Jordan in Spain this week.