Andy Reid hails Bruce’s impact at Cats

Oct 1 2009 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

STEVE Bruce has given Sunderland new direction, new purpose and a style of play better suited to prospering at places like Old Trafford, according to Andy Reid.

The Black Cats are eighth in the table, level on points with Arsenal and Aston Villa having played a game more. They have never had so many points – 12 – seven games into a Premier League season.

And while owner Ellis Short’s millions have undoubtedly played their part, Reid believes the mindset Bruce (pictured left) has imposed on the squad is the most significant factor.

"We are a team with more direction and purpose than last year and the manager has a lot to do with that," argued the midfielder. "Everybody knows their jobs and as a team we know what we’re doing. That, coupled with the mentality of the lads who’ve responded well to the new manager has come together to give us a decent start.

"But we can’t get carried away, it’s only seven games into the season. Get carried away and you start losing – we’ve done that in the past."

The Black Cats have been noticeably more direct than under Reid’s previous Stadium of Light managers Ricky Sbragia and Roy Keane but the Irishman believes it allows creative

players such as himself to inflict more damage, and leaves Sunderland better equipped for games like Saturday’s televised trip to Manchester United.

"We’re playing a different way," Reid acknowledged. "We are a bit more direct and try to play our football in the opposition’s half whereas last year we maybe kept it a bit too much at the back without going anywhere.