Cats’ fringe stars stake their claim in cup win

Aug 25 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

However, it was the form of Irish midfielder Reid – who shed nine kilos during a summer fitness drive – which really pleased Bruce.

He added: “No-one ever doubted his ability, but the one thing you have been able to level at him over the years was his physical condition.

“Fair play to him, he has done it - I will not take the credit for it.

“He has worked, trained hard and kept to the diet.

“We all know what to do but it is very, very difficult in practice.”

Reid was one of the stars as Sunderland safely negotiated the first hurdle of what the manager hopes will be a long involvement in the Carling Cup.

Bruce said: “We are one of the Premier League clubs, so of course we want to do as well as we can. It is always nice to get through - that is what we were here for.

“Some of the players are clearly itching to be in the first team and they did all I asked of them.”

Bruce eased fears about Fraizer Campbell’s fitness after the striker was involved in a nasty collision with Norwich loan goalkeeper Ben Alnwick in the closing stages of the match.

The England under-21 forward – a lively presence throughout – was substituted holding his shoulder, but Bruce reckons he will be available for the weekend’s game at Stoke, saying: “Fraizer is OK.”