Bruce says his squad players must step up in the wake of injuries

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce believes the enthusiasm of his young side has been a key factor in their rise up the Premier League table this season.

The Wearsiders fielded a side with an average age of 23 against Fulham this month, and climbed to sixth after Saturday's 1-0 win over Bolton.

"We are naive, but you can't question their appetite and their resilience," Bruce told BBC Newcastle.

"I always think with what we've got up front, we're capable of scoring."

Of the win against Bolton, he added: "With a bit of spirit and defensive organisation and a bit belief in them, that you can scrape a result. I think a year ago we wouldn't have won 1-0, but there's a fierce determination about them now."

Meanwhile Bruce, who has had to deal with injuries to the likes of Michael Turner, Titus Bramble and John Mensah, will also be without suspended captain Lee Cattermole for Boxing Day's trip to Manchester United after he picked up a fifth booking.

"When you pick a squad of 24, 25 players, you do have to carry players because they have to step up to the plate now," Bruce continued.

"Can we adapt? We've done it up to now but we certainly need a bit more luck in terms of injuries.

"John [Mensah] has gone over on his ankle, so I can't see him being involved in the Christmas period."

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