Mark Atkinson has called on his players to produce a complete 90-minute performance at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.
The new Sunderland under-18s boss has been working tirelessly at the Academy of Light this week as he settles into his new role.
Elliott Dickman signed off from the youth team last Saturday following their defeat at home to Manchester United, and Atkinson is keen for his side to rectify the errors that led to a 5-2 defeat.
Speaking to safc.com, the new under-18s coach has pulled no punches as he prepares his side for a demanding encounter at Blackburn Rovers tomorrow.
“It is always a tough game when you play Blackburn because they have always been difficult to play against,” he said.
“They are currently doing really well in the league and they had a good run in the FA Youth Cup last year so they have some good players.
“They are physically strong and they tend to be well organised – it will be a good test for us.
“Performance-wise against Manchester United we did well in the first 45 minutes but the first 10 after the break wasn’t good enough,” he continued.
“We found ourselves chasing the game but to be fair to the lads they showed some character to keep going to the end.”
