Bruce took over at Sunderland this week, moving from Wigan Athletic and capping a managerial career that has so far taken in stops in the Championship and League One.

Now he believes he is ready to meet the high expectations of Sunderland's large fanbase and wealthy new owner Ellis Short.

"It doesn't frighten me," he said. "I think it's the right time for me. I've done 10 years and in my early days it was very, very difficult when it wasn't quite what was written in the brochure and I struggled with that.

"But over the years I've been able to get a bit of experience and I think this is the right time for me to take on this challenge. I've done over 500 games now so it's the right time.

"I know how difficult it is, especially in the Premier League, and I do believe you become better with experience so that will stand me in good stead."