Ian Holloway has backed Ethan Robson to make his mark for Sunderland under Phil Parkinson.
The 23-year-old has returned to the Stadium Of Light after a successful loan spell with Grimsby Town - the club which Holloway took over as manager last month.
While disappointed to have lost the midfielder, the former QPR boss said that he gave a glowing reference to the Sunderland boss as he backed the promising Wearsider to be success at the Stadium Of Light.
Quoted by the Sunderland Echo, Holloway said: “Ethan has gone back to Sunderland.
“I’ve spoken to Phil Parkinson and typical me, I told him how good I think the boy is.
“Phil hasn’t seen him yet. He’s out of contract in the summer but the boy is obviously from Sunderland and he believes he can play in their team.
“I have to be honest, I think he can.
“So I told Phil that, because he’s a good friend of mine and a proper man.
“So I gave [Ethan] an absolutely glowing report because I felt that he earned it from what I’ve seen."
The verdict
With Sunderland looking at potential options to strengthen in January, Ethan Robson could be the man to solve the problem.
After excelling with Grimsby Town the midfielder may now have the required experience to step up to the chase in the League One promotion chase.
Not only is Robson already on the books, but his affinity for the club means that he'll certainly be ready to give his all for Phil Parkinson and co.