Jack Ross has played down Sunderland’s form this season, admitting in his mind it is only ‘satisfactory’.
The Black Cats return to the Stadium of Light this Saturday as they entertain Wycombe Wanderers, kick-off 3pm.
Undefeated in the league on home soil this season, Ross’ side welcome Gareth Ainsworth’s side to Wearside as they look to extend their winning run in all competitions to nine games.
But despite recording such a fine run, the Black Cats continue to trail Portsmouth who continue to set the pace at the top of Sky Bet League One.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Ross admitted his side’s form doesn’t count for anything yet as it merely provides the lads with the foundations for success.
“Our form over the course of the season has been relatively good,” he said. “To only have suffered one defeat in the league at this point is satisfactory and it has given us a good platform for the remainder of the season.
“I’m not surprised because I’ve always had faith in my squad and trust in it. When you go a significant number of consecutive victories it is always an achievement no matter what the level of the game.
“Although they have been spread over three different competitions, it is testament to how they feel in themselves and as a squad at the minute. Naturally, you want to try and continue that for as long as you can.
“We want to be at the top and it’s not by any means saying we have a divine right to be there,” he continued. “Every league game is difficult, but to get to the top would be another step forward. We haven’t been there to date this season, so we want to get there and remain there.
“Psychologically it would be another big boost for us. To get into the automatic places in the last few weeks has been pleasing and if we can go that extra place and start to lead from the front.”
