Bruce: Sunderland must go into Arsenal clash without fear

Steve Bruce says Sunderland must go into their game with Arsenal without fear.

Arsenal head north in fine spirits following back-to-back 4-1 wins against AZ Alkmaar in the Champions' League and Wolves on the domestic front.

Only the two Manchester clubs have unpicked the Gunners on their travels this season. "How do we stop Arsenal?" mused Bruce.

"Good question. It's about how they play and how they set up, with one sitting midfield player in front of the back four.

"The others are fluid; they just play. It looks as if it's off the cuff, but it isn't because the great teams are capable of playing like that. Arsene keeps producing team after team; this particular team is vibrant and they will take some stopping."

In the boss's eyes, a positive attitude is key.

He told safc.com: "A lot of clubs are beaten before they step out on the pitch and if you take that attitude, you're goosed, simple as that.

"Our lads have stood up against the big teams as it's no good surrendering possession and camping back in your own half. Doing that is a sure way to get beat. The best way is to take the bull by the horns and have a go.

"We keep punching above our weight a little against the big boys and now we have to maintain those standards. If we do then we will give Arsenal a hell of a game, that's for sure."