Sam Brotherton has warned his team-mates against the threats Colchester United pose ahead of tonight’s last 16 Premier League Cup clash.
Sunderland under-23s host the Essex club at Eppleton Colliery Welfare, kick-off 7pm, with eyes fixed on progression through to the last eight of the competition.
Standing in their way, though, are Colchester United who finished as runners up in Group C, knocking out and defeating Manchester City on their way to the last 16.
Speaking to safc.com, Brotherton, 20, has called for focus in the Black Cats’ camp, admitting 100% endeavour is essential to carving out the Lads’ path to the quarter-finals.
“It is a good opportunity for us to maintain our pleasing form in the cup competitions this year,” he said.
“It is a knockout competition so we need to make the most of it because there are no second chances – it is a big game for us.
“They have earned their place in the last 16 by beating teams like Manchester City so we need to be mindful of that but at the same time make sure we produce a good enough performance.”
He added: “Our performance must be at the right level – it should be a good match.”
