Sunderland have looked hugely impressive in recent weeks.

Back-to-back victories over Ipswich Town and Rochdale have seen the Black Cats move up to fifth in League One, a position which appeared to be out of reach just before Christmas.

Phil Parkinson's side were loitering in mid-table at the start of December but a consistent team selection and some fine performances from his players have changed things for the better.

Chris Maguire, Lynden Gooch, Luke O'Nien and Denver Hume have attracted plenty of praise for their performances so far this term, but one man has left supporters a little bit divided.

George Dobson has been a regular in central midfield alongside Max Power, however certain sections of the fanbase have called for him to be dropped in favour of new signing Josh Scowen.

But should the 22-year-old be considered a first team regular?

We asked the Sunderland 'Til I Die Facebook group whether he should keep his place in the starting XI and this is what a selection of fans had to say.

Reece Ellison: “Yes. His distribution is class.”

Keith Elliott: “You can’t change a winning team. Josh Scowen will get his chance shortly.”

Sam Slater: “Absolutely.”

Paul Grey: “People think because hes not scoring goals or setting up goals hes not good enough, these people are clueless. The amount of ground he covers closing players down not giving the opposition time to play and protection hes gives the defence in unreal.”

John Wild: “He’s improving all of the time and doing nothing wrong.”

Daniel Taylor: “He’s been fantastic.”

Tony Booker: “As long as we keep winning I don’t care!”

Jan Thompson: “I don’t think he should ever be out of the team. He gives 100% effort every game.”

Wyn Scott: “He’s come on leaps and bounds. He’s a brilliant young player.”