Steve Bruce feared for Wigan Athletic's future three months ago but now is upbeat about their survival chances. Just a fortnight after taking over from Chris Hutchings at the JJB Stadium in November, he saw his side hammered 4-1 by fellow Barclays Premier League relegation candidates Bolton Wanderers.

It was then he wondered whether he had done the right thing in leaving Birmingham City and moving to Wigan. However, Sunday's goalless draw with league leaders Arsenal at the JJB Stadium showed just how far Bruce has taken the side in his time in charge.

The players worked tirelessly to snuff out any real threat from Arsene Wenger's side, and Bruce was full of praise for their attitude in recent weeks.

"We played Bolton three months ago - and when I was driving home after they beat us 4-1 I was thinking 'We are in danger of being cast adrift if we don't do something quickly'," said the Latics manager.

"The response has been terrific. The effort they have put in is the reason we have turned it around."

Confidence is visibly rising within the Wigan camp - and Bruce, whose side are now 13th but only three points clear of the relegation zone, is optimistic.