Ethan Robson discusses pulling on the red and white stripes, fan backing and his first-team return

The Black Cats were relegated to the third tier of English football for only the second time in their history with defeat against Burton Albion last week.

But the 21-year-old, restored to the side beaten at Fulham on Friday, admits he thought the backing from the fans at Craven Cottage was "unbelievable".

Margaret Byrne, David Moyes, Paolo Di Canio – it’s not just Ellis Short who is to blame at SunderlandHe said: "The support on Friday was unbelievable and it’s been like that home and away.

"They were always encouraging us, even though it’s been so hard for them.

"They always come and support us and I can’t thank them enough."

Sunderland on the brink of a transformative summer as Bryan Oviedo underlines how much needs to be done​The academy product is keen to see that backing continue in League One.

"We need to take their spirit into next season and bounce back hopefully," he said.

“I played against one or the best teams in the league on Friday and I felt like personally I didn’t do too badly.

“I love putting the shirt on and playing for the team.”