Sunderland boss Steve Bruce was delighted with Paulo da Silva's performance in victory over Arsenal.

Bruce, who has established something of a reputation for unearthing previously unheralded talent - skipper Lorik Cana has already achieved cult hero status - was delighted with Da Silva's authority against a side which started the day in second place in the table.

He said: "Paulo was absolutely tremendous. In my experience with all the South Americans, they take time to adapt and adjust and get used to the north-east - it takes me long enough!

"But he is an outstanding defender and I thought he was magnificent in his overall performance.

"And the good thing about him is he is never rash, he is calm and a very, very good defender. He was excellent."