Bruce willing to step in for Reid
Wednesday November 25 2009
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has offered to intervene in midfielder Andy Reid's stand-off with Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni.
The 27-year-old has dropped out of the Ireland reckoning since a much-publicised bust-up with the Italian in the wake of the 2-1 World Cup qualifying victory over Georgia last September, but the clamour for the two men to resolve their differences has grown since Reid returned to Wearside for pre-season training.
Bruce told the Journal: "I have had a conversation with Andy and that has to remain confidential. I hope after the World Cup campaign there can be some sort of compromise.
"It is a shame because his bit of quality against France [in last week's World Cup play-off second leg] might have made the difference.
"It is a shame that he is not representing his country. I know in his condition he is arguably playing at the height of his profession. He has arguably been our best player this season.
"If Andy wanted me to, then I would have the conversation, of course I would. But I will keep what we have talked about to myself."
Press Association
