Steve Bruce: I will turn Black Cats around

Feb 6 2010 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

BULLISH Steve Bruce remains convinced he can turn Sunderland around and give supporters a team to be proud of – and believes that he retains the backing of Ellis Short despite his side’s recent slump.

With Sunderland in danger of being dragged into an unseemly scrap against relegation, Bruce has labelled this afternoon’s clash with Wigan a “must-win” game.

One victory in 14 matches has brought them hurtling to a crossroads and left Bruce himself under scrutiny.

However, the former Wigan manager remains adamant that his approach will yield rewards eventually.

Keeping things in perspective remains the order of the day at the Stadium of Light and a “supportive” chat with Sunderland’s publicity-shy owner Short this week confirmed in Corbridge-born Bruce’s mind that he is going about things the right way.

In the space of four days the season could take on a totally different complexion for the Wearsiders, but that would require beating both Wigan and Portsmouth.

Defeats in either game and the pressure will mount on the Black Cats – and their manager.

In a defiant pre-match Press conference, Bruce returned to the familiar theme of high expectations, and laid part of the blame for Sunderland’s struggles on a start that was “too good”.

The Black Cats boss believed talk of a European challenge then was premature – and also feels their demise now has been overstated.

“We got off to a wonderful start – maybe too good. It was like the North East, everyone’s expectation went whoosh,” Bruce said.