Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Robert Snodgrass has handed his public backing to Steve Bruce, insisting the Aston Villa squad are behind their manager.

After disappointing in the Sky Bet Championship last season, and enduring a slow start to the current campaign, pressure was building on Bruce, who was struggling to meet the demands of an expectant Villa Park.

However, an unbeaten September, combined with four victories from their last four fixtures, has catapulted Villa through the Championship, leaving the play-offs in touching distance heading into October.

Bruce’s side are currently seventh, just a single point behind sixth placed, Preston North End.

Speaking about Bruce, who he previously won promotion with at Hull City, Snodgrass said: “The manager has done this before in this division.

“What’s great about him is he gives you a platform to play, he backs you.

“He’s a great man, a great manager and now you’re starting to see it.

“We’re right behind him, the fans are right behind him and we’re looking forward to the games ahead.”

Snodgrass, 30, was a late addition to Villa’s squad during the summer transfer window, with the Scottish international already making a positive impact at Villa Park during his opening month in claret and blue.

The winger has already registered a goal and an assist from his opening six appearances as a Villa player.

Villa and Snodgrass will be looking to continue their excellent form following the international break, when they travel to Molineux for a testing clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Verdict

Despite finding himself under pressure earlier in the season, Bruce is beginning to turn things around at Villa Park, and for the first time Villa look like a team who can challenge for promotion under the 56-year-old.

It isn’t a surprise to hear Snodgrass publically backing Bruce, with Villa’s form significantly improving in recent weeks.

Snodgrass has been key to turning things around at Villa Park, and should he continue his excellent form, Villa could well continue their rise.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!