Lee Johnson has emphasised the confidence of his squad as Sunderland aim to recover from consecutive defeats with a trip to in-form Blackpool on Saturday.
The lunchtime kick-off provides an opportunity to resume pressure on the top two, against a Seasiders outfit unbeaten in 15 league matches.
“We respect that all the games are tough, but we also believe we can win any individual game if we’re right,” Johnson declared.
“Our goal and our belief is that we can go and get a result at Blackpool. We know they’re a good side in great form – the same form we considered ourselves to be in up until last weekend.
“Things turn around so quickly in football. There can always be a quick turnaround if we do our bit and apply as much pressure as possible. We know what we’re trying to achieve, and there is a belief in the squad that we can cause damage to any opponent. I expect a confident reaction and spirit to take us through to a good performance.”
The Head Coach discussed how he and his staff are looking to continue to build a healthy ‘performance culture’ on Wearside, and briefly analysed the key factor in two frustrating recent losses.
“I think you have to take each game from last week on its merits, and the lack of concentration in the goals we’ve conceded has been the main disappointment for me.
“Even watching the game back against Wigan, there was a lot of good stuff we did well, and that’s me looking at it objectively now.
“Charlton, I believe we played well enough on the day to get something, but the frustration is that switching off. That’s a performance culture at this football club which we’re looking to improve.”
One man who will be absent for the hosts at the weekend is Elliot Embleton, who has significantly impressed since his loan move from the Lads to Bloomfield Road.
Johnson is unwavering in his praise for the 22-year-old academy graduate.
“What we do know is it’s an easy decision in the summer with Elliot,” he said.
“He’ll come back and be in the squad. He’s come through our academy, we want to promote him and the reason for him going to Blackpool is for him to do what he’s done. We wanted him to be successful in a good side playing good football, helping to take points off other teams.
“He’s done that extremely well. We’re always examining the data side of his performance and we’ve been in touch regularly. He’s a great footballer who can play off both feet, both channels, and he perfectly suits their 4-2-2-2 system. He’s done exceptionally well.”