New Wigan boss Steve Bruce admits his protracted move from Birmingham to the JJB Stadium has "become a bit of a laughing stock".

Bruce was due to be presented to the press last week but could not appear due to a hold-up involving the repayment of advance funds paid to Bruce by City.

"It's become a bit of a laughing stock," he conceded on Sky Sports News.

"But things in contracts should, I believe, remain private and it was unfortunate it was addressed in the media.

"It left me in an embarrassing situation and one I'm very disappointed with. "I always knew it would get resolved but it has left a bad taste in the mouth after six years of decent service to the football club.

"It was disappointing at the 11th hour to be facing this obstacle and I'm glad it's resolved."