FORMER Manchester United legend Steve Bruce is a fighter and the Wigan manager s strength has clearly rubbed off on his 15th- placed squad who welcome Tottenham to the JJB Stadium tomorrow. On Monday, the Latics slightly improved their league position, bu

FORMER Manchester United legend Steve Bruce is a fighter and the Wigan manager's strength has clearly rubbed off on his 15th- placed squad who welcome Tottenham to the JJB Stadium tomorrow.

On Monday, the Latics slightly improved their league position, but massively improved their confidence, when they nabbed a point against title-chasing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Bruce's outfit had fallen behind to Michael Essien's 55th minute opener but then showed their mettle to bag a point through Emile Heskey's injury time equaliser.

The valuable point, the Latics 35th of the campaign, takes them six points clear of the drop zone but, crucially, Reading and Bruce's former club Birmingham, separate them from the bottom three.

Bruce is Wigan's fourth boss in 12 months, following the resignation of Paul Jewell last May.

On the field, Heskey, whose England career was revitalised by former England manager Steve McLaren, has undoubtedly recaptured his form judging by his goal against Chelsea and his match winner at the Reebok in March.

Marcus Bent and Kevin Kilblane now both claim a regular first team place and can be expected to start.

Ryan Taylor and Marlon King have also been on the scoresheet in recent weeks.

Spurs hammered Wigan 4-0 at the Lane back in November but the Carling Cup holders will face a more steely Latics this time.