The Black Cats full-back admits the fanbase has had a tough time in recent years and is eager to repay them for their support.
Sunderland defender Adam Matthews has spoken out about the improvements at the club over the past few months and outlined the importance of getting the fans back onside.
The Black Cats are slowly but surely rebounding from a difficult few years as they sit third in League One with two games in hand over the two teams above them.
Matthews scored a goal in Sunderland’s last game, Saturday’s 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers, though a late defensive lapse saw opposition striker Stefan Payne claim the ball and hit the bar.
Jack Ross’ side was able to hold out for all three points and, with just one league defeat all season, there is a good springboard upon which to kick on during the busy festive period.
Following the game, Matthews gave an interview to the Sunderland Echo in which he praised the attitude of his teammates, as well as hailing the fanbase, which had suffered a lot in recent years.
“The whole attitude, you’ve got players who want to be here,” said Matthews, who has been at the Stadium of Light since 2015. “Everyone wants to play for the shirt.
“The main thing was getting the supporters back onside because they’ve had a really tough time in recent years. They’ve been brilliant so hopefully we can get the club back to where they deserve it to be.”
Sunderland return to action on Saturday with a trip to Portsmouth before hosting Bradford on Boxing Day, followed by a home fixture against Shrewsbury on 29 December and a visit of Blackpool on New Year’s Day.
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