Wigan manager Steve Bruce admits the JJB Stadium pitch could hamper his side's survival bid - but he will not be complaining.

The relegation-threatened Latics are just two points above the Barclays Premier League relegation zone heading into this weekend fixtures - and they face a daunting visit from Arsenal on Sunday.

The JJB surface has attracted criticism recently, and was badly cut up during a Wigan Warriors rugby league match last weekend, but Bruce has told his players to grin and bear it.

"A lot has been said about the pitch," he notes.

"It's absolutely awful, and obviously that's a hindrance to us.

"I wish we had a good pitch here, because the players enjoyed playing on one at Manchester City last week.

"But I have to say the groundsman has done as much as he can. He works all hours to try to get it right. But unfortunately we have got a problem, and that can't be rectified until the summer.

"In the meantime, we just get on with what we've got."

Bruce is well aware of the task facing his side this weekend as they host an Arsena side on a high after a stunning win over holders AC Milan in the Champions League in midweek.

But he can at least draw encouragement from Wigan's recent performances, with last week's battling point at Manchester City coming after a win over Derby.

The former Birmingham boss believes he has a good team spirit at Wigan and hopes that can carry his side a long way.

"I have been delighted with their attitude," he said.

"They have proved to me they have got the stomach for the fight, and we have also got some good ability in the team.

"You have got to produce a performance as a team - it is a team game.

"That is why we can never win the pools on Saturday, because it does throw up some results where you think 'Hang on a minute, I didn't think that could happen'.

"We've got to believe that it can. I look forward to the challenge."

Bruce has the luxury of a full-strength squad available, with Ryan Taylor back after a month out with a rib injury and Kevin Kilbane having recovered from a bruised foot.

"I am in an unbelievable position where I think everyone at the football club is fit, which is great," said Bruce.

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