Sunderland defender Bryan Oviedo has remained professional throughout pre-season, despite finding himself preparing for a year of football in the third-tier.

The Costa Rica international featured for his country in this summer’s World Cup and had been open to leaving the North East side this summer.

Despite that, he was named on the bench for Sunderland’s opening league fixture of the season against Charlton.

After an injury to Donald Love, the 28-year-old left-back was introduced.

His controlled defensive performance won plaudits and he impressed at the other end of the field.

Oviedo had a hand in Sunderland’s late winner when his cross was expertly converted by Lynden Gooch to cause pandemonium for home supporters at what was the latest of goals.

Having made a positive impact at the weekend, should Oviedo be in the starting XI next week?

We discuss…

Alfie Burns

His impact from the bench was very good on Saturday.

If you were in Ross’ shoes consideration would be going into recalling Oviedo. 

Despite his desire to move, he has too much quality for Sunderland to ignore. 

Gary Hutchinson

Yes, he's talented, they're paying a wage so he should play. 

Besides, he turned in a decent performance this weekend and football is all about performances.

George Dagless

Yes.

He wants to leave, but he's also willing to play and assuming that he's not gone by the weekend I think he'll start.

He's got quality that you won't frequently see in the third tier so why not use it while they can.

Jay Williams

If Oviedo is still a Sunderland player by this weekend, then he should definitely be handed a start.

Although he wants to leave, he has been professional in the way he has conducted himself, never moaned and given his all on the pitch.

At League One level, he is arguably the best full-back in the division.