Sunderland defender Tom Flanagan started at right-back last weekend.
Flanagan was selected to start at full-back for Sunderland in their match against Rochdale, which finished as a 4-1 victory.
Although Flanagan is more naturally a centre-back, he performed well in the full-back role.
And the summer signing believes that he has now given Ross something to think about, ahead of Sunderland’s next match.
“I’d like to think I’ve given the manager a bit of a problem now, and that he’ll keep me in the team,” Flanagan said.
“That said, I’m happy to do my bit and as the manager said [after the game], and I totally agree with him, it’s going to take 30 people – and maybe a few more – to get us promoted at the end of the season.”
Flanagan’s inclusion meant that Adam Matthews was dropped to the bench by Sunderland.
The Black Cats may well now stick by Flanagan, as their victory over Rochdale was their most comfortable of the season so far.
Sunderland are now in third place in the League One table, after an impressive start.
The Black Cats are next in action against Coventry City at the weekend.
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