Don Goodman hailed one Sunderland star during the 2-1 victory over Sheffield United on Wednesday night.
The Black Cats entered the game five points behind the visitors and defeat would have all but ended their automatic promotion hopes.
Now, their gap to the visitors – and Burnley – has reduced to two points and Regis Le Bris’ team can still dream of the Premier League.
One reason for Sunderland’s strong first half to the 2024/25 Championship campaign is the form of one man who ex-player Goodman has called ‘sensational’.
Don Goodman hails Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson
Anthony Patterson has been one of Sunderland’s top performers in recent seasons, and the Sky Sports commentators were quick to mention that during the game.
First, Gary Weaver explained that the Black Cats were actually encouraged to replace Patterson with a new number one a while ago.
“There was talk when Sunderland were promoted to the Championship that maybe they had to bring a more experienced goalkeeper in and not give Anthony Patterson the opportunity,” he said.
“But Sunderland believe in giving young players a chance and standing by them and that is what they’ve done.”
Obviously, the Wearside club made the right decision as the 24-year-old has now developed into one of the best in the division.
“I remember that talk when they were promoted,” ex-Sunderland striker Don Goodman replied. “Sensational is the only word you can use to describe him. He’s been brilliant.”
Indeed, Patterson is now subject to interest from Tottenham ahead of the January transfer window due to his impressive form.
Anthony Patterson got ‘lucky’ in Sheffield United win
Patterson had another good game against Sheffield United, including a vital penalty save in the first half, but he was fortunate in one scenario.
Right-back Trai Hume played a simple pass to the goalkeeper, who stalled on the ball and invited pressure from Rhian Brewster.
The Spurs target clumsily stumbled away from Brewster and only narrowly avoided making an almighty mistake.
“Lucky boy,” Goodman said on commentary. “Lucky lucky boy. Such an unnecessary risk to take, isn’t it? Got away with it.”