Optimistic Bruce believes recovery is coming
Jan 25 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal
STEVE Bruce believes he can see the green shoots of a Sunderland recovery after a bleak mid-winter, despite the fact Sunderland were dumped out of the FA Cup at Portsmouth.
The Black Cats are struggling to find any sort of form and Bruce admits he is worried about the team’s defending as they once again allowed a one goal lead to slip at Fratton Park.
But the former Manchester United star, who wants to sign at least one more defender before the end of the month, feels the worst is behind them as he pointed to the return of several key players at the weekend, with midfield dynamo Lee Cattermole also on the verge of an eagerly-awaited comeback.
He said: “It’s been a difficult December and January after a wonderful start to the season. However, I thought the performance was better against Portsmouth. There are four or five coming back and we certainly need them.
“It will help when they’re back up to full speed, but we must get better defensively. We’re conceding far too many goals and, at this level, the goals we conceded here were simply not good enough.
“It’s hard enough to score against Premier League opposition, without giving goals away like that. We’ve strengthened in that area with the signing of Matt (Kilgallon), and I’m sure he’ll come in and help us out.
