Sunderland striker Chris Maguire is desperate to play a role in their play-off second leg with Portsmouth this weekend, after scoring the goal that gives them a slender lead.

Maguire had dropped down the pecking order at the Stadium of Light, a combination of injuries and new arrivals limiting his impact in the latter stages of the season, but two goals in two matches have forced him right back into contention.

He scored not long after coming on as a sub against Portsmouth at the weekend and is now eager to remain in the side as they look to finish the job, and set up a Wembley date with either Doncaster or Charlton.

“It’s games like this you live for,” he told the Northern Echo. “Every footballer wants to be involved in games like this and there’s no better way to do it (win promotion) than the play-offs. If you can win them, it’s a great occasion.

“You’ve got to be professional. I want to start every game but when you don’t you want to come on and make a point to say that I want to be in the team and hopefully I’ve done that.”

He revealed it's been a frustrating period for him, but that he always backed his own ability.

“I felt I was ready to start, of course – I finished the game at Southend and I’ve felt since I came back that I’ve worked hard to get back to where I am but that’s the manager’s decision and I respect that. It’s not a time to go and ask why.”

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Maguire has nine goals from 41 outings in all competitons, but just three of those have come in the league since the turn of the year. He missed two months of the season with injury, but has bounced back to play a key role in their push for a Championship spot.

The Verdict

Maguire could be key for the Black Cats this weekend. He might not have cost a big sum, he might not have double figures but he is a proven League One footballer.

He's driven too and understands what is required at this stage of the season. His return to form is a big boost for Jack Ross.