Bruce intoxicated by Cana air

Cana: Cult hero

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Boss hails Sunderland skipper's fantastic attitude

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has hailed skipper Lorik Cana, believing he has been a 'breath of fresh air' on Wearside.

The Frenchman has become a cult figure at the Stadium of Light with his no-nonsense displays since his £5million switch from Marseille in July.

But Bruce is not surprised by such hero-worship, revealing he became a big fan of the midfielder after watching him play against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League.

The Black Cats boss told the Sunday Mirror: "I first saw him when I went to see Marseille v Liverpool. He rattled into Stevie G with his first tackle.

Overall enthusiasm

"But what impressed me most was his overall enthusiasm. You didn't have to watch him for very long to realise what he had.

"He was a cult figure down there in Marseille - which is not easy. Now he is a cult figure here and I did predict that at the time I signed him.

"But I didn't think I had any chance of getting him as he was captain. Then there was a change of coach when Didier Deschamps came in this summer. He brought in players of his own and that freed up Lorik to leave."

Bruce believes the physical side of the English game perfectly suits the combative style of Cana's play.

Adores

The coach added: "He adores playing in England. The style is his cup of tea. He enjoys the physical challenges.

"People questioned why I made him captain, but you only have to watch him to see what he brings to the team.

"He is an intelligent boy, a good looking one and has a big fan club, especially among the ladies.

"But Lorik tackles and challenges for every header. He has been a breath of fresh air."