Sunderland achieved their aims of promotion at the weekend when they were able to overcome Wycombe Wanderers 2-0 to see them go up to the Championship. 

Goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart were enough to see the Black Cats get the job done.

However, Anthony Patterson put in a solid goalkeeping shift commanding his box, making a big save to stop Sam Vokes scoring a good chance.

After a Covid outbreak saw him recalled from his loan at Notts County, Alex Neil decided to give the 22-year-old his chance which he took with both hands and established himself as first choice goalkeeper at the club.

The Sunderland boss was full of praise for him at the weekend too as he told Sunderland Echo: "Anthony was brilliant.

"He's been great, honestly, really really good.

"The first few games when I came in I thought that he looked as if he was lacking a bit of confidence. But I think that once I fixed the defence and the structure in front of him, I think he just went from strength to strength.

"To come through the academy, such a young kid still...Dennis Cirkin next to him as well is still a young boy.

"They've been excellent.

"That save from Patto was crucial as well, when we just misread one and he managed to get out and block it. I was really pleased."

The Verdict:

Patterson has really taken the chance that was given to him this season and he deserves the praise that he is receiving from his manager.

The 22-year-old has waited for his opportunity and to get a promotion in your first season of senior football speaks volumes about the talent he is.

Alex Neil has clearly filled him with a lot of confidence too and that is shown in his performances. Now he will be working on adapting to the league above and making sure he remains as first choice in the Championship.

At only 22-years-old though, the future seems bright for the young goalkeeper.