Sunderland have set the standard and must continue to reach the heights of work ethic and commitment displayed against Manchester City, according to Billy Jones.
The Black Cats were aggressive, tenacious and full-hearted against Pep Guardiola’s side, with every member of the team giving their all until the final whistle.
Unfortunately, City’s array of world-class talent proved decisive as Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane found the net to seal three points, with Sunderland once again denied by the woodwork as a decisive moment went against them.
But speaking to safc.com, Jones stated there were positives to take before urging his team-mates to come together and give their all during the final run-in.
“We need to show the effort, work rate and commitment we did against Man City,” said Jones.
“First and foremost that’s what the fans want to see and, like we do as players, they get frustrated when the quality is lacking at times in the final third.”
He continued: “That’s understandable, but like I said above all else the fans want to see Sunderland players working their hardest and giving their all for the team, and for the club.
“The talk of the dressing room is making sure we hit that level, that standard and that work rate, not just against the likes of Man City but against every team in the Premier League.
“We were disappointed with Sunday’s result because every game is absolutely massive at this stage of the season and because of the position we’re in, but there were positives we can take.”
“We have to be on it – always.”
