Bruce looks to continue Wigan revival

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Wigan have hauled themselves out of the relegation zone after taking eight points from five games since losing 4-1 at Bolton last month.

Sunderland dropped back into the bottom three following Wigan's 1-1 draw at Liverpool on Wednesday and the Latics travel to face their fellow Barclays Premier League strugglers as they switch to cup commitments.

Since being promoted to the top flight in 2005, Wigan had lost all 20 games against Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United until their midweek draw at Anfield.

Now Bruce aims to shatter another unwelcome record, with the Latics having reached the fourth round of the FA Cup just once in the last 20 years.

"We hadn't taken a point from one of the top four teams until Wednesday so let's hope it's a good week for us," he said.

"The games have come thick and fast, and I've been delighted with the response.

"We've got a head of steam going and it's been important that we've done that to give ourselves a chance of survival.

"A few weeks ago, after the Bolton game, I thought we were in danger of getting cut adrift, but thankfully the players have responded well and given ourselves a fighting chance."

Bruce was a team-mate of Sunderland manager Roy Keane when Manchester United beat Chelsea in the 1994 final, and Keane went on to lift the FA Cup on another four occasions with United.

With the pair now facing a relegation battle as managers, Bruce admits securing their top-flight status is their biggest priority, but the Wigan boss believes a decent cup run could be the catalyst to a fine league finish.

"I'm a traditionalist so I think we should always cherish the FA Cup," he said. "I admit the third round is not like it used to be but, for me, it's still the best cup competition there is.

"We should do our utmost to enhance it and now it's back to Wembley, there's nothing better, in my eyes.

"When you've had the privilege of getting there and enjoying an FA Cup experience, it's one of the highlights of your career.

"I was fortunate to play behind Roy when he was just reaching his peak. I won the 1994 FA Cup final with him and it was the start of what he turned into - one of the great players that this country's produced.

"We both understand that the most important thing for both teams is to remain in the Premier League, that's our bread and butter," Bruce added.

"But make no mistake, an FA Cup run can always add a bit of magic to your season and if you are fortunate enough to get to the final, it's a wonderful experience."

Bruce is set to ring the changes at the Stadium of Light with Andreas Granqvist coming into defence for the suspended Titus Bramble while midfielder Salomon Olembe could be given his first start under the former Birmingham boss.

"I will use this game to have a look at some I haven't seen play before so that'll give me a better insight into the squad," said Bruce.

"I've only been here six weeks and the squad's been pretty settled with the results we've had, which have been good.

"This gives me an ideal opportunity to see a few players and for them to make their stamp on the team and try to force their way in."