Sunderland defender Reece James has made himself undroppable with his past three performances

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Sunderland have kept three consecutive clean sheets in League One.

Sunderland have enjoyed a strong start to their League One season, with Jack Ross’s side currently in third place, just three points behind league leaders Portsmouth – and with a game in hand.

The Black Cats’ only real issue after their first 12 matches was keeping clean sheets, but Sunderland have worked hard and tightened at the back – and three consecutive clean sheets and four wins in all competitions have confirmed this.

And at the heart of Sunderland’s defensive solidarity has been summer arrival Reece James, who’s recent performances have made him undroppable for Sunderland’s upcoming matches.

24-year-old James had been struggling to get into his new side’s starting line-up with both Bryan Oviedo and Denver Hume ahead of him in the pecking order. But Costa Rican international Oviedo was sent off against Peterborough United, and Hume picked up an injury against Coventry City, giving James his opportunity. The former Wigan Athletic full-back has taken his chance, and has been a part of the defence in recent matches.

James offers an old school approach in the left-back position, which is arguably Sunderland’s strongest, with a clear ability to read the game, whilst also being dependable in attack if needed.

Oviedo returned to the bench against Southend, whilst youngster Hume’s return shouldn’t be far away, but James’ recent displays will make it hard for either man to get back into the side.

Sunderland signed James on a free transfer in the summer and the impressive defender is yet another example of the excellent business that both Ross and the hierarchy on Wearside have done since their arrival.