Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn is ready to step up his efforts in the transfer market after seeing the current squad return for pre-season training.

Steve Bruce has insisted landing the Newcastle manager’s job was never his dream.

Sunderland 2 Wigan 0

David Gold insists Birmingham “will do everything” to hold on to manager Steve Bruce, who 18 months ago rejected the chance to become manager of Newcastle.

Birmingham chairman David Gold has warned Newcastle they will face a fight if they want Steve Bruce as Bobby Robson’s successor.