Bruce has players in mind

However, co-owner David Sullivan has told the Blues boss that funds for new players will be limited when the transfer window opens again in January and said that Blues may have to go down the road of getting continental stars in on-loan to help keep the club in the Premiership.

"Like any manager I'd love millions to spend, I'd love to be able to go out and smash the transfer record again and again," said Bruce.

"But I know I also have to be realistic. The days of really big spending are coming to a shuddering halt. I'm not going to kid our supporters by saying we are going to be splashing out millions, because that just isn't possible in the present climate.

"From the talks I've had and what Mr Sullivan said, I understand my budget is limited and it's my job to do the best I can within the guidelines I'm set. I have a couple of players in mind and, as a club, we are exploring every possible avenue we can with regard to making signings.

"We have been all over the place checking players out as well as speaking to agents. I accept that it's down to me to come up with the right ones and also make sure that we get the best out of the players we have already got.

"One thing I am determined about is that we survive in this division and then in the summer, with the increased income our status should generate, we build the club on the playing side and, as far as infrastructure goes, at the training ground."

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Bruce has players in mind

Last updated : 22 November 2002 By Brian Cartlidge