There's no problem with Bruce, insists Birmingham chairman Gold

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Gold also confirmed Blues caretaker boss Eric Black is in the running to replace his old manager Bruce, whose unveiling at Wigan has been delayed due to negotiations with the midlands club.

"The problems will be solved in due course," Gold told Sky Sports News.

Asked about a time-frame for Bruce's departure to be confirmed, Gold said: "I really don't know at this stage, I am as much in the dark as you are."

He added: "Eric, whom I hold in high regard, will be our manager for the (Barclays Premier League) game against Portsmouth (on Saturday)."

Asked whether Black is a contender for the job, Gold added: "Yes, he certainly is.

"If he beats Portsmouth - like we did a couple of seasons ago, 5-0 - I'm sure he will be in the running!"

As for a reported approach to Italian World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi, Gold said: "I can't discuss this. It is a very difficult time for Birmingham City, an unusual time."

Blues defender Mat Sadler believes Black would receive the full backing of the players if he succeeded Bruce as manager.

Bruce wants Black to join him at the JJB Stadium and resume the successful partnership they have forged over the past two-and-a-half years.

But left-back Sadler is hoping Black will stay with City and believes he would have the total respect of everyone in the dressing room.

Sadler said: "Steve leaving came as a shock and surprise really. Nobody saw it coming. It wasn't as if he was going to get sacked, or that anyone was calling for his head.

"Every player in that dressing room was brought here by him. He's played a massive part in their careers.

"But 'Blackie' has always had the respect of the players. A big part of the togetherness we have got is down to him.

"You can be sure that everyone will be playing for him. If he was given the manager's role full-time, he would do a good job.

"I don't think there would be a person in the dressing room who would think otherwise. I don't think there would be any qualms here from anybody if he was made manager."