Bruce the key factor for Larsson

Sebastian Larsson says Steve Bruce's desire to bring him to Sunderland was a crucial factor in his decision to join.

The Swedish winger has agreed a deal with the Stadium of Light club and will officially sign on at the start of next month.

The 26-year-old was out of contract at Birmingham City and it was thought that former club Arsenal wanted him back.

However, despite Larsson revealing he had offers elsewhere he was keen to re-join Bruce having worked with him at Blues

"I had other alternatives but it's great to sign with a club like Sunderland," revealed Larsson.

"Steve Bruce showed he really wanted me and that's important.

"Sunderland are building for the future and want to be better than last year."

Larsson made 35 Barclays Premier League appearances for Birmingham in 2010/11, also helping them to the Carling Cup final.

But he was unable to prevent the Blues dropping into the Championship on the final day of the season.

Now he is back in the Barclays Premier League and relishing a fresh start at the Stadium of Light under a manager who knows him well.