Sunderland ace Cattermole sticks up for manager Bruce after Whelan attack

Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole has defended boss Steve Bruce after he was criticised by Wigan chairman Dave Whelan.The Latics supremo, who hired Bruce in 2007 before the former Manchester United defender's summer switch to the Stadium of Light, claimed his ex-boss made 'dodgy signings' and left the club ' weak in reserves' after their humiliating 9-1 defeat at Spurs on Sunday.But Cattermole has leaped to his manager's defence. Why me? Steve Bruce has been criticised by former chairman Dave WhelanHe said: 'I like Dave Whelan. I think he's a good chairman - a footballing chairman.'But I don't understand where he is coming from with this.'When you look at the guys Steve bought for Wigan, you just can't argue with his record - Wilson Palacios, Antonio Valencia - they were sold for big, big money. Bemused Black Cat: Cattermole doesn't understand Whelan's comments'Not everyone's going to be a big hit but I can't understand Dave Whelan attacking the gaffer.'I think he is just trying to take the heat off the new manager.'You look at the signings the gaffer made at Wigan and to be honest I thought they were all good.' Harry Redknapp prepares £6m Anton Ferdinand rescue bid after Steve Bruce removes defender from long-term Sunderland plansEmbarrassed Wigan players vow to refund fans after 9-1 thrashing at Spurs Bent should go to the World Cup with England, says Sunderland ace Cana SUNDERLAND FC

Source: Daily_Mail