Sunderland Vs. Fulham

Bruce and the Sunderland players have been in good form this week, albeit off the field. They’ve been talking the talk but tomorrow it’s time for them to take to the pitch and end our sorry run of winless games. Haway lads, put a smile on our sour faces. I’ve forgotten what a win feels like.

At last, after months of injuries and needless suspensions we have a strong squad of players to choose from once more. And if we’re not confident going into tomorrow’s game then we have a serious problem. Fulham were in action during the week and earned a fantastic draw away from home against Shakhtar Donetsk, whilst the Sunderland side has had a week to rest and recuperate.

Zamora was injured during Fulham’s European tie and it’s possible that he might miss the game at the Stadium of Light (fingers crossed). I’ve never thought he was the best of players and he’s not the most popular but he has had a good season and is even being touted for a place in the England team! Surely Bent’s the better option but I don’t think we’d be surprised if he’s overlooked.

Cattermole will return to the first team after missing the game against Arsenal through suspension. He always makes a difference when he’s controlling the centre of midfield and hopefully he hits the ground running against Fulham.

Bruce is still confident we can finish the season on a high. Out of the remaining 11 games, 7 of them are at home. We have had to rely heavily on our home form this season so we should be positive that we have enough quality to get the wins we need to see us to safety.

Bruce believes we can earn consecutive victories, explaining: “Back-to-back victories at this stage of the season is massive and that’s what I’m asking of my players.”

“There’s absolutely no reason why we can’t do it. And if we do that, then everything starts to turn around very quickly again.”

Bruce added: “I am still quietly optimistic that we’re going to turn things and start climbing the table again.”

We are as well Brucie. I’m 100% behind you and I hope you can get us back to winning ways. It’s a big, big game tomorrow, the players and manager are under a lot of pressure to pick up the three points. I hope they embrace it and give us something to shout about.

Haway the lads.