Bruce defends big Sam

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has launched a passionate defence of Blackburn counterpart Sam Allardyce amid the ongoing debate over reckless tackling.

The two managers will go head-to-head at Ewood Park tomorrow evening with Allardyce’s approach having been questioned by Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy, who singled out his team, Wolves and Stoke for criticism over the physical nature of their play.