McCormack flew back to England to rejoin the Villans after a prolific spell at Melbourne City, where he scored 14 goals in 17 appearances.

Although Villa are in desparate need of an in-form striker, Bruce's relationship with the forward has been strained, with the coach previously publicly lashing out at McCormack for missing training.

“McCormack looks as if he’s come to an end at Melbourne,” Bruce said. “I’ve given him a couple of weeks off. He can’t go anywhere else because he’s played for two other clubs.

“When he comes back after having a couple of weeks off I’ll have a chat with him, see where he’s up to and we’ll go from there."

Melbourne City have been trying to keep hold of their prized asset heading into A-League finals, with 'Ross the Boss' unable to play for a European or Australian club this season under FIFA regulations.

But despite the uncertainty over McCormack's future, the experienced Villa gaffer isn't being drawn on whether the Scot has a place in Birmingham yet.

“I would have liked him to have stayed in Australia and play because I think he’s benefited from playing," said Bruce. "But he’ll come back in and we’ll see how he is.”

“You can never say never and I’ll never ever cut off my nose to spite my face, even though I’d like to at times. We’ll see what happens."