Sunderland currently lie eighth in the Barclays Premier League - just two points off Aston Villa in fifth spot - after an excellent start to the new campaign.

The Black Cats have already beaten Liverpool and Arsenal at the Stadium of Light, while Barclays Premier League champions Manchester United were fortunate to claim a last-gasp draw.

Bruce has impressed in the transfer market with nine-goal striker Darren Bent in prolific form while midfielders Lorik Cana and Lee Cattermole and defender Michael Turner have also impressed.

With owner Ellis Short giving Bruce his full backing, the 48-year-old believes he can establish Sunderland as a major force in the Barclays Premier League.

He said: "The first thing I need is time, and I'm convinced I will get that, given the people I work for.

"I say that even though I have only known them for a short period.

"They are good people to work for and I'm determined to make sure we have a team that everyone is proud to be associated with. I believe we are making progress.

"I will be judged as a manager over a period of time. I don't want to be judged on the fact that we can do well against the top four - I hope I will be judged over time and that people will look back and say I did a decent job over my years with Sunderland."