ALEX Bruce last night spoke of his delight at being able to play against Norwich City on Sunday.The Blues defender, along with Derby County keeper Stephen Bywater, had their red cards rescinded after clashing on Saturday.

By Derek Davis

ALEX Bruce last night spoke of his delight at being able to play against Norwich City on Sunday.

The Blues defender, along with Derby County keeper Stephen Bywater, had their red cards rescinded after clashing on Saturday.

However, they they will now have to answer improper conduct charges for an incident as they made their way to the tunnel.

Both have lodged appeals against that charge and are free to play this weekend.

Bruce last night told the EADT: “It is the best bit of news I have had in a while, especially after the last few days. I'm delighted the appeal for wrongful dismissal was upheld and I can't wait for Sunday now”

Bruce was born in Norwich when his dad Steve was a player at Carrow Road but left the city when he was just three years old and spent his early years in Manchester, although Bruce senior returned to manage the Canaries.

He said: “I have not been back since I left as a kid but I can't wait to go back and see a few old faces and give their team a good hiding.

“My mum and dad keep in touch with a lot of people so family friends will be there but I'm hoping it is going to be a good day for Ipswich fans.”

Bruce will not now face a three-match ban, which would have ended his season, and is confident he will be cleared at an FA hearing next Wednesday on the charge of improper conduct that he and Bywater face after an incident as both left the pitch when the Derby keeper instigated another clash.

Unlike the red card, which carries a fixed penalty, the improper conduct charge does not carry a mandatory penalty and each player could face anything from a reprimand, fine or ban.

Bruce said: “I feel I have a good case. I did not do much wrong and I have evidence to back that.”

With the FA taking action against Bywater it is expected that the Derby keeper will not face any further police action after he was interviewed immediately after the game in the presence of manager Billy Davies.