Gus Poyet is delighted with the level of competition in his squad and says last weekendâs win over Southampton has only intensified the clamour for starting spots. Poyet made nine changes to his side prior to the FA Cup with Budweiser clash with the Saints and was buoyed by the performance as the Black Cats progressed to the last eight. Iâve seen [great] performances in training this week from players who havenât been playing but who played at the weekend - Gus Poyet All those handed a chance against Southampton impressed, none more so than Craig Gardner, who fired home a stunning winner four minutes into the second half. And the Sunderland chief been pleased with what heâs seen in training so far this week, admitting thereâs some tough decisions ahead as he ponders his team selection for this weekendâs game at Arsenal. âThe players were outstanding [against Southampton],â he said. âWhen people read nine changes maybe they were expecting a scrappy game. âEven without creating too much in the first half, on the ball we were very, very good, organised, difficult to beat and breaking and pressing. âI can use any player at any time, without any doubt.â He continued: âIâve seen [great] performances in training this week from players who havenât been playing but who played at the weekend. âThat shows what one game can do to the confidence of a player. Iâve got plenty of options and a good [couple of] days to decide. Itâs going to be interesting to see who [plays] on Saturday.â
I cannot recall SAFC having this many players fit. Got too be good for places> Competition should not provide pressure but propel you into striving to perform better
I like the fact that he has other plans for how we play and shape up, depending on who's performing at the time he can change the shape of the team. Previous managers have been too one dimensional.
