Bruce: ´I expect more Koreans in England´

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce says Korean footballers have the right attributes to succeed in English football and expects many more to join the Premier League in the future.

The former Manchester United defender enjoyed a whirlwind tour to Korea this week to promote the Black Cats while also watching the Taeguk Warriors take on UAE in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday in Suwon.

Bruce, who signed Ji Dong-Won from K-League club Chunnam Dragons earlier this year, told reporters he was impressed by the work ethic of Korean footballers.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if many Korean players are playing in England,” Bruce said. “They’ve already proved that they are no longer lacking physical strength.”

Bruce added: “The big thing we like about Korean players is the great desire they have to succeed. They have a great work ethic.”

Sunderland’s Ji is one of four Koreans currently playing in the Premier League along with Manchester United’s Park Ji-Sung, Arsenal’s Park Chu-Young and Bolton’s Lee Chung-Yong.

The Black Cats manager also hinted he would like to sign more K-League talent but acknowledged issues with obtaining work permits for Korean players could hold him back.

“As a manager, it’s my job to follow and watch our players’ national team matches. If we could bring some other good youngsters in, it will be terrific,” Bruce said.

“As we know, getting a work permit is a big problem. They have to play for the national team in order to play in England.”