Bruce is a two-time winner of the FA Cup as a player

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has revealed the FA Cup is a priority for him and his players this season.

The Black Cats take on Blue Square Premier Barrow in the third round and Bruce has targeted a cup run as a route to silverware and European football.

"Our best chance of doing anything is in a cup competition," Bruce told BBC Newcastle.

"We know we are capable of winning five or six games, which is what you need to do to win a cup."

Barrow, known as the Ziggers or Bluebirds, lie 16th in the top flight of non-league football, 97 places below the Wearsiders.

Under joint-bosses Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan they have suffered just one defeat in 18 games, with progress in the FA Cup and FA Trophy in that time, and Bruce admitted his players must treat the visitors with the utmost respec.

"Let's be honest about it, they'll be trying like beasts," he said.

"We must make sure that we match their work-rate and effort and endeavour.

"From the reports I've got, they're genuine and honest and love a scrap, and we must make sure we match that.

"If we do, which I'm confident we will do, then I'm sure our quality will shine through."

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