Steve Bruce was forced to cut a “feisty” Aston Villa training session short, prior to the play-off final at Wembley on Saturday.

According to the Daily Star, a mini-match during an Aston Villa training session on Tuesday had to be cut short, as it was in danger of getting overly competitive, four days before the play-off final.

Steve Bruce ended the game, but thought it was pleasing to see his side ready to fight in the biggest game of their season.

Bruce stated: ”On Tuesday I had to stop training early because they were champing at the bit - too early. It got a bit feisty to say the least.

"It was very, very interesting. It's not a bad sign. I'm not against it at all. It's normal.

“We just stepped in and cut it a little short - shall we put it that way. And I hadn't even revealed the team then."

The 57-year-old Villans boss has gained promotion to the Premier League on four separate occasions, two of them through the play-offs, and will be hoping to get to England’s top flight again.

The Claret and Blue Army will be facing a tough Fulham side at Wembley, overseen by Slavisa Jokanovic.

The Serbian manager’s side finished five points ahead of Aston Villa, and will certainly be going into the play-off final as favourites to gain promotion.

The Verdict

Steve Bruce will no doubt be slightly happy that his side are showing the fight and determination he hopes to see on the field in the play-off final, in their training sessions.

With a spot in the Premier League up for grabs, and facing a very impressive Fulham side, Villa will need to throw everything they have at Jokanovic’s side, if they are to be successful.

Having a feisty training session won’t hinder Steve Bruce’s side, but they will need to remain focused going into the match.