Steve Bruce’s smart swoop for John Mensah

Aug 18 2009 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

Bent, Cattermole and Cana all made instant impressions in Saturday’s opening-day win at Bolton Wanderers.

“I knew it was a no-brainer with Catts (Cattermole), and Darren Bent and Cana too,” said Bruce. “For me to spend £25m on three players is nose-bleed stuff. I do not think I spent £20m in 10 years!

“You still have to be prudent but anyone who witnessed the (Bolton) game would say that was money well spent. That is what they have started with, now they must repeat it. But it is great to see them get off to a decent start. It is a manager’s dream when your signings have an impact the way they did.”

Bruce, who continues to be linked with Arsenal’s Philippe Senderos, among others, downplayed talk of an imminent move for out-of-contract defender Lucas Neill.

“I showed an interest, I was intrigued to see where he is at,” he said. “He is one we are looking at.

“I just had a conversation so we have two, three or four irons in the fire and it is up to me to make the ultimate decision which one we go for in next 24, 48 hours.”

Midfielders Steed Malbranque and Kieran Richardson are doubts for tonight’s game.

Frenchman Malbranque is the least likely to play, having twisted his ankle in Bolton.

But Bruce insists he will not risk Richardson, who suffered a dead-leg at the Reebok Stadium, either.

“We also have a game at the weekend (at home to Blackburn Rovers) so I’ll err on (the side of) caution,” he said assessing the pair’s chances of figuring tonight.

“You cannot go into a game against Chelsea only 90%, 95% fit.”

Andy Reid, however, returned to training yesterday after a thigh injury to bolster Bruce’s midfield options.