BIRMINGHAM chairman David Gold's denial that Robbie Savage is a troublemaker came as no surprise to those who would expect the Blues' chief to speak up for his player.

But he should not expect his words to carry any weight with rival players and fans - especially down at the Reebok, where they have seen the wild Welshman at his worst.

Savage needed an escort from the pitch when he was substituted after his bust up with Aston Villa's Dion Dublin on Monday night.

The sight of him holding his jacket to protect his face from a hail of missiles from spitting and snarling Villa fans evoked memories of him being substituted for his own protection during the infamous Premiership clash between Wanderers and Leicester in December 2001. Paul Warhurst and Dean Holdsworth had been sent off but Savage was seen as the villain of the piece and got himself so wound up that Foxes' boss Dave Bassett considered him a liability.

Bruce thought likewise the other night, explaining: "I thought we would take him out of the firing line."

The controversial Welsh international does not care if he is the most hated player in the Premiership. But his provocative antics, which frequently incite supporters, do not go down well with opponents, who despise players who break the 'professional' code.

Dublin was captured on camera shouting "He's a cheat, he's a cheat." as he headed for the dressing room. Later, as he apologised for getting himself sent off, it was noticeable that he did not say "sorry" to Savage.

Gold reckons: "I spoke to Robbie and he gave me no indication of any problems other than an horrendous tackle on him. He got up and remonstrated, as most players would, and the next thing we saw Dion Dublin headbutt Robbie."

Asked if he was "a wind-up merchant", Gold responded: "It's unreasonable and unfair. He's a passionate, determined player. How many times has he been sent off this season or last season?"

Savage, who is currently on 10 yellow cards this season after the 20 he picked up last year, has never been red-carded.

But, like the misguided boy racer who thinks he's a great driver, does he ever look in his rear view mirror to see the wreckage he leaves behind?