Sunderland's Grant Leadbitter has praised his teammates after they remain unbeaten in League One following their 1-0 victory over Crewe last night.

The Black Cats are expected to win promotion from the third tier this season and Phil Parkinson's side have started in impressive fashion.

They have dealt with a tough fixture list on paper by winning four and drawing two of their opening six games - conceding just one goal in the process.

Leadbitter has made a big difference since he came in to the XI after the opening day draw and he was hugely influential once again as Crewe were beaten.

And, he took to Instagram to reflect on the game, delivering a positive verdict of the game.

"Good nights work at the SOL #daybyday."

The 34-year-old is sure to be in from the start as Sunderland take on Portsmouth this weekend in what is another big game for Parkinson's men.

A win against Pompey will see Sunderland close the gap on the sides above them as the top four are all playing each other this weekend.

The verdict

Sunderland are looking very strong right now as they are keeping clean sheets with ease and they have enough quality in the final third to make decisive impacts.

The experienced midfielder is crucial to that as he has added a real bite to the team and his know-how is helping the team manage games well.

So, they will want more of the same this weekend when they welcome a good Portsmouth team to the Stadium of Light.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.