Max Power has featured in Sunderland’s last two matches, and is pushing for a place in Jack Ross’ starting line-up again.
Power made his first start since the beginning of October for Sunderland against Port Vale in the FA Cup two weekends ago.
The former Wigan Athletic man was then used as a late substitute against Wycombe Wanderers in the league in Sunderland’s most recent game.
And Ross has suggested that Power is closing in on a return to Sunderland’s starting line-up.
“I like him a lot, he’s forcing his way back into my team which is all I can ask for,” Ross said.
“I said it to my staff after the Port Vale game when he had a similar impact from the bench.
“It reminds you why we were so keen to bring him and those attributes that he’ll bring over the course of a season. He’s desperate to do well, that’s why he’s ended up frustrated at times. He looked fit and strong on Saturday.”
Power began the season as a starter for Sunderland, but in his absence the team have been in brilliant form.
The Black Cats won all five of the matches that Power was not in the squad for, which left the 25-year-old fighting an uphill battle to break straight back into Ross’ starting plans.
However, Sunderland drew with Wycombe at the weekend, and that may well give Power the opportunity he needs to come back into the team.
Sunderland are next in action on Saturday, when they take on Walsall at the Bescot Stadium.
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