David Gold refuses to enter slanging match with Steve Bruce

Nov 30 2007 By Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

BLUES' board are not going to get involved in a war of words with former boss Steve Bruce.

He attacked them for "disgusting" behaviour over the image rights snag that held up his switch to Wigan Athletic.

Bruce, who had to pay back a six-figure sum, was angry that his salary details had been leaked to newspapers and said he deserved more respect.

When he was unveiled at Wigan he made a point of thanking Blues' play-ers, backroom team, the staff at the training ground, but not the board.

Chairman David Gold said: "I have not had any issues with Steve over his departure. I have not been involved in those conversations with him.

"Despite some of the things that have been said, metaphorically speaking, I shake Steve's hand. We have had six great years working together. I thank him for that. Two promotions in that time - I won't dwell on relegation.

"What he has achieved has been fantastic, like all of our managers."

Co-owner David Sullivan commented: "We have always been a supportive board and are nice people to deal with.

"There were a few bitter comments the other day, which was a bit sad really, but I'm not going into that."