Crewe boss David Artell has admitted that Sunderland are comfortably the best team his side have come up against after their clash last night.

A Charlie Wyke goal was enough to separate the two but it didn't tell the whole story, with the Black Cats dominating throughout and they really should've score more.

And, as quoted by the Sunderland Echo, Phil Parkinson's side certainly left a positive impression on Artell as he praised the way they played.

"Sometimes you have to hold your hands up and say you have been beaten by the better side. Sunderland are the best team we have faced this season by a distance. They are a terrific team and have good players."

The claim bodes well for the Wearside outfit as the Railwaymen have already come up against the likes of Charlton and Hull already this season, having enjoyed a decent start following their promotion.

Sunderland are unbeaten in League One this season and are back in action this weekend when they welcome Portsmouth to the Stadium of Light.

The verdict

This is nice for Sunderland fans to read and there's no denying that they were very good last night.

Right now, the team are very well organised, making them hard to beat and even though the goals aren't flowing in, they're creating chances and doing enough.

Artell was clearly impressed and it's now down to Sunderland to keep up their consistent form when they take on Pompey as they look to push into the top two.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.