Sunderland FC

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• Manager:Steve Bruce

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Bruce welcomes back Turner

27 Aug 2010 - 15:11:02

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Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is delighted to have central defender Michael Turner available to make his first league appearance of the season against Manchester City this weekend.

The 26-year-old missed the clashes with Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion due to suspension, but returned to the fold in midweek for the Carling Cup win over Colchester United.

Bruce told the Sunderland Echo: "It's good to get Michael back on the pitch again because it's been agony for him sitting it out. He's one of those players who hates missing games.

"He played through injury several times last season because he didn't want to miss matches - that's the sort of footballer he is.

"So to miss out on the first two games after completing a full pre-season was exactly what he didn't want.

"I know he's found it frustrating not being able to help in the games against Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion, but he's back now and we're all delighted with that.

"The Colchester game was probably the ideal warm-up.

"It's great for Michael that he has been able to get that match under his belt before having the challenge of a Premier League game against one of the country's top teams."