'Better than Messi!': Sunderland fans hail 'superb' ace after stunning MK Dons win

The American netted a stunning late goal to seal victory at Stadium MK, and fans were quick to praise his impact in what was a cagey clash.

Fans also offered their take on a promising debut for Kyle Lafferty, who was introduced for Charlie Wyke in the latter stages of the clash.

But some supporters were still concerned by a performance which wasn’t as dominant as the Black Cats have been in recent weeks.

Here’s what supporters were saying on social media:

@AlexJAMills said: “Something we’re missing on the left hand side, unbelievable it’s Tom Flanagan at the back!”

@RamseySAFC added: “So Poor. We haven't pressured very well, we look tired. We are being overrun in midfield, the wing backs have done nothing to help the front 3.”

@SunderlandafcI tweeted: “The first half hour has shown we still need some real quality. The fight and effort is there but the quality is not”

@aimeegordon_x commented: “Being too confident here with our passing, getting caught every time”

@laking86 added: “I haven’t changed my belief that the main factor behind our upturn in form has been the return of Gooch and him being in top form. Would still be worried if he dips or picks up an injury. Enjoying it for now though. Brilliant goal”

@AnthMongan3 said: “Get in the lads man!The California charver has been superb last few weeks!”

@ozturkfanclub joked: “I can honestly say now that Gooch is better than Messi”

@jimmmmyreay posted: “Gooch bringing the flames again. Such an important player for us - he’s only getting better and was one of the best in the Champo season last time round too.”

@LDoubleE_87 tweeted: “Like the looks of Lafferty already, hold up play looks streets ahead of Wyke even in a few minutes”

@bazzsafc commented: “Parky out! Donald doesn’t know what he’s doing appointing him as a manager....... quiet on that front now eh??”