Sunderland have set the standard following their performance against Tottenham Hotspur, and they must maintain it according to captain John O’Shea.
The Republic of Ireland international was as solid as a rock alongside Lamine Kone, with the duo reigniting their partnership following the latter’s return from the Africa Cup of Nations.
On Saturday resilience and defensive solidity will be vital as Sunderland head to Crystal Palace, with Sam Allardye’s side maintining a three-point advantage over the Black Cats thanks to a 2-0 win over AFC Bournemouth.
And speaking ahead of the game, the captain urged his team-mates to emulate their midweek display.
That [effort against Tottenham] is going to be the minimum needed going forward,” stated O’Shea.
“We’ll need that resilience and togetherness with the game we have coming up, and hopefully we can create more chances.”
He continued: “Palace had a good win on Tuesday night and that will have given them bit of confidence, but we had a good result as well against Spurs.
“We know it’ll be a tough challenge but it’s one we’re up for, and we’re looking forward to it.”
