Quinn not expecting an influx

Jul 3 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

NIALL Quinn is not predicting a major overhaul of the Sunderland squad as new manager Steve Bruce looks to tinker with the side following last season’s unexpected brush with relegation.

Quinn insists he is relaxed about the Black Cats’ lack of progress in the transfer market so far this summer, as he warned fans not to expect large numbers of new arrivals.

Although the Wearsiders are looking to strengthen in every area of the side, a new centre-back, a creative midfielder and a centre-forward are their main priority, with the first team due to return for pre-season training in just under a week’s time. And Sunderland’s chairman believes it will be the character of the players, as much as their talent, which will determine whether they are signed by Bruce.

“We’re not going to drastically overhaul the squad,” said Quinn, who is delighted at the way his relationship with Bruce has blossomed.

“We’ve got some lovely footballers at the club and Steve recognises that.

“The day he was appointed, even before that, we said what we wanted and that’s someone who could put a couple of men in there amongst good players.

“Steve gets that, gets what we

need and understands it more than most people. We’re on the same wavelength in terms of the type of player we need.

“I’ll not interfere once I know it’s that type of player who wants to come and give a performance week in, week out that the people will applaud.

“Steve knows that more than anyone. He knows the type of character we need to play in front of what can be a brilliant crowd, or a tough crowd and you need to be a man to get through it.”

Sunderland have been linked with a huge array of players over the last few weeks, but none have actually moved to the Stadium of Light.