Elliott Dickman has thrown the gauntlet down and challenged his players to show what they are about once more this evening.
Sunderland under-23s head to Peterborough United tonight in the Premier League Cup, kick-off 7pm at the ABAX Stadium.
Having seen five debutants impress in last Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy win at Morecambe, Dickman has now admitted it is up to his players to impress once more as they prepare to get judged against the Posh.
Speaking to safc.com, the under-23s boss was complimentary of the young guns’ showing at the Globe Arena but urged them to use that as a springboard for their career.
“You can definitely see there is a buzz around the group,” he said.
“They’ve sampled the first-team environment, the staff and everything that comes with it. It is great for the Lads to get the chance to see how things are done on a senior matchday.
“Jack Diamond, Jake Hackett and Jack Bainbridge started and did smashing, so did Jordan Hunter who was able to experience it too.
“There were good bits in all their performances. Lee Connelly came on and took to it like a duck to water, his work ethic and attitude is really good and that’s helped our training group.”
He continued: “It’s one the Lads have to learn from. It’s great at the time and I’m pleased they are on a high and in a good place.
“Ultimately, though, they will get judged again individually when we take to the pitch on Monday at Peterborough.”
