Villa is unbeaten in five matches since Bruce took over as manager from Roberto Di Matteo, with Jedinak an ever-present under the Englishman.

The 32-year-old has been outstanding over the last couple of weeks, putting in a commanding performance in the 2-1 come-from-behind win over Blackburn Rovers on the weekend, which included a brilliant lofted pass to set up Jonathan Kodjia’s match-winning winning goal.

Jedinak’s form isn’t going unnoticed after his high-profile move to the club from EPL side Crystal Palace.

“The Australian was immense again for Villa,” reported the Birmingham Mail.

“He looked comfortable sitting in front of the back four. Breaking up play, tracking runners, and winning crucial interceptions, Jedinak played a huge part in this important win.

“He has become a key player under Bruce and Villa fans are starting to see why he became such a popular figure at Crystal Palace.”

Bruce was equally lavish in his praise of Jedinak and knows his experience and quality is crucial to Villa’s hopes of pushing for an immediate return to the EPL next season.

“He’s played really well in the last couple of games and he’s started playing like the player he knows he is,” Bruce said.

“And the lads around him have helped him do that.

“I isolated him a bit against Wolves but since then he’s done well.”

But the Villa boss in resigned to being without his inspirational midfielder for the club’s next match in the Championship against Brighton.

That clash is on next Friday night in the UK, just three days after Jedinak will lead the Socceroos out in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Thailand in Bangkok.

Bruce isn’t willing to take a risk with his star, who is likely to be tired from the long trip back to England.

“Jedinak won’t play, he plays on the Tuesday in Thailand - so how can I expect to make him play on the Friday?" bemoaned Bruce.

“It makes the game just that bit harder, Brighton are a good team who’ve made a wonderful start.

“They were good side last year and they didn’t quite make it. They’ll be there or thereabouts, so that’s the challenge.”

Jedinak has made 10 appearances in the Championship for Villa this season, providing two assists as the club has recovered from a slow start to sit in 14th spot.