Jack Ross reacts to Sunderland's hard-fought win over Walsall and provides Adam Matthews injury update

Jack Ross is hoping Adam Matthews' hamstring injury is not serious with Sunderland in the Checkatrade Trophy final two weeks on Sunday.
Jack Ross.Jack Ross.
Jack Ross.

The Welshman, playing left-back, was forced off in the 2-1 win over Walsall at the Stadium of Light with a hamstring concern and went straight down the tunnel.

Ross says the defender will be assessed and hopes it is not too serious. Sunderland have a break in league action and don't play again until March 31 when they face Portsmouth at Wembley.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

On Matthews, Ross said: "Hamstring. We will assess him and see how he is. It's not too bad I don't think.”

Sunderland came from a goal down to beat the Saddlers at the Stadium of Light, with more than 34,000 in attendance.

Lee Cattermole and Will Grigg scored to cancel out Josh Gordon's fourth minute strike.

Ross said: “We didn’t defend well in the early part of the game, didn’t defend the set piece well, in the early part - I was a wee bit critical and maybe overly critical because it isn’t easy for defenders in blustery conditions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We didn't defend well throughout the first half but going forward we were good and created a number of opportunities.

“Then to overcome that start and win was satisfying.”

Ross was pleased the character of his Sunderland players, adding: "I am am pleased with that all the time, I am proud of them as a group for what they have achieved.

“They have a points total as a group, if you dropped us in the Championship or League Two we would be top two or around it.

“What we have done this season is good, we have to keep reminding them of that, not many people do.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“And get them to take pride in it. It is about finding a way to win a game and every single point we have earned and worked really hard for.

“I was not too concerned as I felt the number of chances we created we would take another one off them.”

Sunderland now have a lengthy break from league action, Ross pleased to head into it with a win, especially with Luton Town held to a 2-2 draw at home to Gillingham and Barnsley drawing at Doncaster Rovers on Friday night.

Ross said: "I have been consistent with this, the only time you can get uptight about it being in your own hands is when there are only a few games left.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Every team still has a lot of games left, to win today was important before the break.

“To go into the break with a win was important, our dressing room recognised that, they understood the importance of winning the game."