Charlie Wyke backs Kyle Lafferty to shine at Sunderland as he discuss a potential striking partnership

Lafferty, who joined the Black Cats after a spell at Norwegian side Sarpsborg in January, is yet to make a full start after penning a six-month deal on Wearside.

But Wyke has revealed the big impact the experienced forward is having behind the scenes, and believes the striker will prove to be an astute signing as Sunderland enter the final weeks of the season.

“He's a good player, he's had a good career and he's a good addition to the squad,” said the 27-year-old.

“He's a good lad and he's got along with everyone straight away.

“I know he probably hasn't had as much game time as he would have wanted, but I can see he's ready for his chance and he's going to be a good player for us.”

While the calls for Lafferty to start over Wyke have increased in recent weeks, Phil Parkinson could opt to field the duo together – as he has done when Sunderland have been chasing games.

And when asked if he could see a partnership with Lafferty flourishing, Wyke joked: “Hopefully - hopefully he's not playing ahead of me!

“He's obviously come on a few times and we are chasing a game then, so it's hard for him.

“But when he has come on he's been bright and there's a lot to look forward to.”