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Five Things for Steve Bruce to take from the hammering of Bristol City

By Jonathan Northall

TELFORD, ENGLAND - JULY 12: Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce looks on during the Pre-Season Friendly between AFC Telford United and Aston Villa at New Bucks Head Stadium on July 12, 2017 in Telford, England. (Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images)
TELFORD, ENGLAND - JULY 12: Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce looks on during the Pre-Season Friendly between AFC Telford United and Aston Villa at New Bucks Head Stadium on July 12, 2017 in Telford, England. (Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images) /
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DERBY, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 16: Bradley Johnson of Derby County header is saved by Sam Johnstone of Aston Villa during the Sky Bet Championship match between Derby County and Aston Villa at iPro Stadium on December 16, 2017 in Derby, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
DERBY, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 16: Bradley Johnson of Derby County header is saved by Sam Johnstone of Aston Villa during the Sky Bet Championship match between Derby County and Aston Villa at iPro Stadium on December 16, 2017 in Derby, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images) /

Sam Johnstone Must Stay at Aston Villa

There has been plenty of rumours around the on-loan goalkeeper over the last few days.  Holding onto Johnstone is number one priority in January.  Manchester United know they have an asset they can realise, despite being surplus to their needs, and Villa need to respond.  However, it is a difficult situation due to the FFP regulations in place.

Despite not having too much to do against Bristol City, Johnstone’s worth was obvious. Like all good keepers, he did what he had to do when asked.  He exudes confidence that you wouldn’t get from Steer and Bunn.  Aston Villa are developing a good defensive unit and Johnstone underpins that.

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