Steve Bruce defends Danny Collins decision

Sep 15 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

The former Tottenham striker has been a revelation on Wearside and is quickly becoming a fans’ favourite with four goals in just five games in the red-and-white stripes.

And the 25-year-old Bent is confident his new side will only get stronger the longer they play together.

Bruce shipped out 15 players and signed seven new ones over the summer and it will take time for the revamped squad to settle down.

Bent said: “I think in certain areas as a team we can definitely improve. Without a doubt, we can improve the final ball and even though we scored four against Hull, I think we can get better in that area as well.

“I think we can be a real force this year if we get that right.”

One of the players to have made a real difference is new captain Lorik Cana.

The former Marseille midfielder has forged a teak-tough partnership with Lee Cattermole in the centre of the pitch and Bent predicts the Albania international will be a star in England.

He said: “He has been brilliant and is just as hard as Catts. He can play it around as well and, as the fans have seen, he can pass and shoot. Everyone here thinks a lot of him, He can definitely become a cult hero here.” Bruce has also been thrilled with Cana’s input following a £5m move from France, although he is worried the 26-year-old has already been booked three times this season in the league.

He said: “That’s his third yellow card – it is just getting him through the season that will be an issue. To say he is trying to do his best is an understatement. You can see why I have made him captain.

“He has obviously got to try to curb it, but he is just full of enthusiasm, trying to do the job and trying to play in England. Everybody is telling him how tough England is – well, the Albanian captain is there to stand up.”

l Striker David Healy has been linked with a move to Championship side Watford following the collapse of a similar move to Coventry City.