Ged McNamee was immensely proud of Sunderland’s academy starlets following their impressive performances against Watford.
Jordan Pickford and Duncan Watmore were joined by Tom Robson and Rees Greenwood in the final starting XI of the season, with the latter duo making their first-team debuts at Vicarage Road.
George Honeyman also featured replacing Greenwood during the second period, and there was further positives off the field with under-18 striker Josh Maja also involved.
Speaking to safc.com, academy manager McNamee hailed a great day for the club.
“It was a proud day for the academy and they all did well,” said McNamee.
“Rees was the youngest of the group but he handled the pressure really well and showed some neat touches.
“He played with great confidence, as did Tommy Robson who completed the 90 minutes and had a really good debut.”
He continued: “It was tough for George to come on when he did but he picked it up and played well.
“Then you also have the lads who have already been in and around the first team. I thought Pickford was outstanding and his distribution is second to none.
“Dunc also had good opportunities and looking at the replays his goal was onside, and Josh Maja, who is a first year, travelled down with the squad and trained with them on pitch.
“Overall I’m delighted and it’s good for the academy because the young lads within it see players breaking through.”
