Bruce's side are on the back of a seven-game unbeaten run

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce says he is eager for his first taste of a local derby as the Black Cats face Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday.

Bruce was just 15-years-old when he left the north-east to pursue a career in football with Gillingham.

He told BBC Newcastle: "I've never been (to a Tyne-Wear derby) which I can't believe, but I did leave in 1976.

"I've been looking forward to it since it was announced - it's up to us now, I look forward to the challenge of it."

Bruce was born in Corbridge, Northumberland, but was brought up in Wallsend and was a boyhood Newcastle fan.

"It's what the area thrives for," the 49-year-old continued. "It's a tough working-class area which enjoys its football.

"It's a release from all of those tough times that they have.

I'm never going to deny where I was born and bred and it's given me great values Steve Bruce

"That's why it's supported the way it is and that's why it's a huge passion for most people."

Bruce added: "I'm never going to deny where I was born and bred and it's given me great values.

"I'm always proud of where I'm from, but I'm the Sunderland manager and I'll take a great pride in taking my team there (to St James' Park) on Sunday."

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