Simon Grayson praised Joel Asoro’s attacking instincts following Sunderland’s 3-0 win over Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
- Check out our new-look match report from last night's 3-0 win
- Book your tickets for Saturday's game
- Watch Simon Grayson's post-match verdict
The striker returned to action with a bang against the Lions after featuring for Sweden at the U21 European Championships in Poland.
A goalkeeping error gifted Asoro the chance to make his mark and he punished the home side by burying the opportunity within a blink of the eye.
Just 18, the striker found the first-team net for a second consecutive pre-season while also joining under-23 strike partner Josh Maja amongst the goals this term.
And speaking to safc.com the Sunderland boss praised the duo’s goalscoring prowess.
“It was a good goal in terms of his awareness and reaction because he didn’t sleep when the ‘keeper spilled it and between him and Josh Maja they were both looking to pounce.
“That’s a good habit to get in to because it’s not always the 20-yard goals or the fantastic individual strikes that you can rely on, it’s those poacher’s goals in and around the six-yard box that can have a real impact on your tally throughout the course of the season.”
Grayson also singled out the red and white army who once again – and as they always do – travelled in numbers.
“It’s a testament to them that they’re following the team and they’ve got a decent performance out of them.
“We want to send them home pleased with the team’s performance over the next 46 league games, many cup games and the rest of our pre-season friendlies.”
He added: “We appreciate them spending their money and their time and hopefully we’ll all be in this for the long-term.”
