Sunderland’s Lynden Gooch has played a key role at the Stadium of Light so far this season.
Gooch was often overlooked by Sunderland’s previous bosses, Simon Grayson and Chris Coleman, in favour of other options as the Black Cats were relegated from the Championship.
However, Ross has been quick to see the talents of the United States international.
Gooch has repaid his manager’s faith, as he has been in excellent form for Sunderland this term.
And Ross admits that he has been surprised by just how good Gooch is.
He said: “Lynden is the one who has surprised me a little, I don’t know if he had injuries last season or through a lack of selection (it was mainly the latter).
“The number of minutes he has played at this stage of the two season is way above, that’s testament to his performance levels. I think he is feeling the benefit of having that consistency of selection.”
Gooch has made 17 League One appearances for Sunderland so far this term, and he has scored on five occasions and claimed eight assists.
The 23-year-old has been one of Sunderland’s most dangerous attacking options, with his performances earning great praise.
The Black Cats are currently in third place in the League One table, with their next match coming against Bristol Rovers.
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