Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce says Swede Sebastian Larsson has a big role to play this season.

"He was unfortunate to be out of the side because he was sick at Manchester City," said Bruce. "Daniel de Ridder came on in that match and how could I leave him out (against Wigan) after the performance he gave?

"But he showed a great attitude, Seb. Even after the game he walked straight up to de Ridder and congratulated him, and this is the player who has taken his position.

"It just shows you what a good spirit there is. They realise it's a squad game and sometimes you are not going to get a look-in and that you have to be patient.

"And, ultimately, it is the squad that will seal our fate."