Phil Parkinson has reserved special praise for Luke O’Nien and Denver Hume after the duo starred in Sunderland’s win on Saturday.
The pair combined to great effect with 20 minutes gone at the Stadium of Light, as Hume’s early cross from the left invited O’Nien to throw himself at the ball and turn home an eye-catching header.
Netting for the third home league game running, the 24-year-old continued to be his energetic self while Hume offered width, pace and trickery on the left as Sunderland claimed three points and a clean sheet.
Speaking to safc.com, Parkinson was full of praise to his players but paid particular homage to the duo.
“It was a great bit of play, a fantastic cross from Denver and what a header,” he said.
“He is so dangerous in the opposition box. The timing of his runs is great, he is as brave as a lion and it was a class goal from a very good player on the day.
“I am pleased with Denver because I think he is getting stronger,” he continued.
“He is more confident and I think he is getting more dynamic with his play.”
“He is positive in his play and I thought in the first 25 minutes of the first half, him and McGeady caused all kinds of problems down that left-hand side.
“I was really pleased with what he’s done since I have been at the club.”
