Kevin Kilbane believes "everyone's future is on the line" under new Wignan manager Steve Bruce.

Although Wigan eventually went down 2-0 against league leaders Arsenal yesterday to suffer an eighth successive defeat, for long spells they frustrated the Gunners with a solid defensive display.

Indeed, but for some less-than-composed finishing, most notably by striker Marcus Bent with a close-range header in the first half, they could easily have come away with a result.

Kilbane was asked to skipper the side yesterday by caretaker boss Frank Barlow, who could be replaced as assistant by Birmingham's Eric Black when Bruce gets his back-room team in place.

The 30-year-old Republic of Ireland international said Bruce - finally cleared for departure by the Blues on Friday - had personally given the team his input for the clash against the Gunners.

"We showed a bit more fight and spirit than we have been showing, but ultimately we have lost another game. However, we have not disgraced ourselves," Kilbane said.

"We looked solid throughout the team, and that is what we have to be for the rest of the season now - we have to be together.

"We have now got to start looking for some results, starting with next week against Manchester City."

Kilbane added: "I am sure there will be some futures which will be unclear, because the manager will be looking to bring in some players.

"We probably have got to strengthen, we have got to move forwards.  So at the moment everyone's future is on the line. Players have got to impress."

Bruce is set to be officially unveiled at the JJB Stadium on Monday.

Kilbane feels the former Manchester United defender has already started to have an influence.

"The boss had about five minutes with us before we left the hotel, and said a few things, then also spoke to us before we went out, and afterwards," the Wigan midfielder revealed.

"It probably did lift us knowing he was there in the stands."