Ross McCormack has been sent to train with Aston Villa’s Under-23s by an infuriated Steve Bruce as a result of the striker missing training more than once.
The rest of Villa’s first team have been given Monday off as the club’s next match is not until January 31 but McCormack has been ordered in.
Bruce revealed his displeasure with McCormack after dropping him from the squad against Preston and admitted one excuse used by the £12million signing for being absent was that the gates to his house were stuck.
McCormack’s fitness levels have also been an issue and he will continue with sessions alongside Villa’s youth squad until Bruce is happier.