Jack Ross has explained his decision to hand the captain's armband to on loan Wigan midfielder Max Power for the midweek draw with Peterborough.

George Honeyman sat the game out injured, meaning Ross needed to name a new captain. He plumped for the 25-year old, recently returning to the side following his suspension.

Ross explained to the Sunderland Echo that he could have named any number of players as captain, but explains why he chose Power.

“He deserves it in terms of the players that were available tonight because of the way he trains every single day, how he is around the group and the standards he sets on the pitch as well,” Ross said.

"I think, around the group, we have a number of players who can take on that role and I wanted that within the group. These guys have all got good  leadership attributes in different ways and Max was chuffed."

"That’s pleasing for me as a manager as it’s always interesting to see their reaction and he was honoured to do it."

Sunderland drew the game 2-2, twice leading before Ivan Toney drew Posh level, the Black Cats finishing the game with 10 men after Brian Oviedo's 68th minute dismissal.

The Verdict

Sunderland have a lot of experience in their side, Adam Matthews for instance could have captained them, as could Aiden McGeady.

Power did a great job and Sunderland were unlucky not to overcome Posh. It bodes very well for the future, they're gelling nicely and they'll be in touch with the leaders all season.

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