Sunderland forward wins praise after Liverpool win

The young Cats are back on top of the Barclays Under-21 Premier League after the 2-0 win over Liverpool, with second half goals from Mikael Mandron and then Lawson sealing the win.

And Welsh has hailed the impact made by Lawson, who also scored in the 3-2 win over Middlesbrough last week, on the title-chasing team who have moved a point clear of rivals Manchester United.

“Carl has come off the back of this bad injury and now he has scored two goals in two games,” said Welsh.

“He is playing just off the right hand side in a narrow position and he is finding some great areas to take up.

“He is getting into the box well and he has managed to score a terrific goal off a really sweeping move so pleased for him.”

Liverpool included Divock Origi, Sheyi Ojo and Jerome Sinclair in their side but Sunderland’s youngsters proved too strong as they reclaimed top spot.

“Liverpool put out a very strong side and teams are giving us that ultimate respect,” added Welsh.

“But the lads were terrific and as I have said many times we don’t fear anyone.

“We don’t fear anyone because the lads stick together, they work hard and they have a great desire so it is wonderful to go back to the top of the league.

“We competed very well with them in the first half, it was nip and tuck and I just thought if we raised our tempo a little bit and passed it quicker forward at times we might just cause them a few problems.”

Sunderland have 35 points from 16 games, United are second having played a game less.