The Black Cats' record signing wants to see his team get its first shut-out of the season at the fourth time of asking, when Manchester City come calling on Sunday.

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And while Gordon is satisfied with Sunderland's start to the season, he says he will be a happier man when he gets that first clean sheet of the campaign under his belt.

Sunderland have conceded in their opening fixtures against Liverpool, Spurs and Nottingham Forest.

And their last clean sheet came as far back as March 22 against Aston Villa at Villa Park – 11 games ago.

Gordon said: "We've done reasonably well so far, getting our first win in the league and then beating Forest in the cup mid-week.

"And it's also been pleasing that the two wins in our first three games of the season have not only been back to back but both have also been away from home.

"However, it will be great to prevent the opposition from scoring in a match.

"And hopefully that will start this Sunday in the game against Manchester City.

"Keeping a clean sheet isn't the be-all and end-all of everything – obviously the most important thing is to win the game.

"But from a defensive point of view we go into the game looking to end it with no score next to the opposition's name. And that's what I want to get this weekend

"Sometimes, with the best will in the world, it just can't be done – you have to accept that when you are up against top quality players. Against Forest in midweek, Robert Earnshaw scored a great goal from a free-kick.

"I thought at the time that the wall might have done better. But when I saw the replay there wasn't much they could do about it.

"When you get a great finish, you just have to hold your hands up and accept it. But we know that if we produce very solid performances then we should be capable of getting clean sheets.

"And not only does that guarantee you a point, it also helps you build a platform from which you can get wins."