Assistant manager Colin Calderwood has talked up Steve Bruce's part in Aston Villa's win over Birmingham City and hopes that the three points provide the boss with some happiness following a tough week.
Bruce had to contend with the passing of his father, Joe Bruce, on Tuesday and has also had to care for his mother who has been battling illness.
The 57-year-old was still present for Sunday's Second City derby showdown with Birmingham, however, and saw his side pick up a 2-0 win - both goals coming in the second half - that lifts them up to second place in the Championship standings.
Speaking after the match, Calderwood told BBC Sport: "Steve came in on Saturday. It was the first time the players had seen him this week and, from then, it's all been normal. He picked his team and picked his subs. He's a very family orientated man but he's managed to control everything that's gone on in his personal life.
"He gave an excellent half-time team talk in terms of keeping them focused and calm, telling them 'don't be disappointed', that we just had to produce what we'd already done. And the goals came. A shaft of light. A moment of happiness.
"Derbies are good games to win and we're on a good run of derby wins. We'll enjoy the elation but we're all aware of what lies ahead. We have the future to take care of."
Villa have now won seven league games on the spin and face Fulham in their next match in six days' time.
Daniel Lewis
