Phil Parkinson has backed Luke O’Nien and George Dobson to play a key role in Sunderland’s promotion push this season.

The duo have been impressive for the Black Cats so far this season and played a key role in securing the 1-0 victory over Southend at the weekend, with O’Nien getting the decisive goal.

Of course Sunderland will need the full squad to pull together if they’re to go one better than last season, but Parkinson said that the young stars can be key to that, particularly if they keep improving at their current rate.

Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, Parkinson said: “When you have players like that they will only get better, they are relishing the stage, Jordan Willis at the back too.

“He is growing into it. They will get better and it is great to work with young players with energy and they have really got that.

“I am seeing a lot of good things, I really am.

“We have some good players and players with desire. George Dobson again was immense, Luke too, we have a real good mentality.

“We want to improve that across the team, and we will do.”

The verdict

There's no doubting that Luke O'Nien and George Dobson have been impressive so far this term.

O'Nien has been particularly impressive in a more advanced role, while Dobson is making his position in the middle of the park his own.

It's been a mixed season for Sunderland so far, but what's clear is that home form is going to be crucial.

The victory over Southend continued the record of the Black Cats being unbeaten at the Stadium Of Light so far this term; something that they'll be keen to continue if they're to push for promotion.

If they can make their home patch a fortress, while rectifying their form on the road, then there's no reason why Phil Parkinson's side can't be challenging for the top two this season.