New Sunderland manager Steve Bruce aims to match the big boys

Jun 4 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

“I hope it will be longer than three years. I really hope that after two years Niall's knocking my door down to try and get me to sign an extension,” he said. “I hope I can take the club forward. There is no reason why this club can't be at the right end of the table battling the big boys.

“It's all here, the support is here. The place is steeped in history and tradition. It's up to me to provide a team that is capable of that.

“It's been up and down too long. It needs to stay there and make sure it progresses.”

To do that, he wants to instill the values of teamwork and character in his side.

“Anyone who has ever worked under me, I'll forgive them a misplaced pass, if they miss an open goal or a misdirected header – what I won't forgive is not going out and giving it everything they've got.

“If they go out and play with a bit of pride and passion and play for the jersey they'll be okay.

“The North East epitomises that, they want to see their team really roll their sleeves up and have a go. If I can provide a team like I did at Wigan and Birmingham the North East and the Sunderland fans will be absolutely delighted with that.”

Significant team building is expected. A move for Spurs striker Darren Bent is in the pipeline, while Bruce also look to cherry pick the best players from his former team.

“Wigan might be a little small squad and a little small town but by god they've got some big players,” Bruce said.

“It would be wrong of me not to think about them but I've also got a huge respect for Wigan, the chairman and the chief exec. Of course there will be people at Wigan I'll court.”