Charlie Wyke's brilliant response to criticism over his Sunderland form and goal return
Charlie Wyke insists he isn’t concerned about criticism over his Sunderland goal return – as long as the Black Cats seal promotion.
The 27-year-old has netted six times in all competitions this season and, while admitting he is keen to add more goals to his game, isn’t overly concerned by his return in front of goal.
Instead, the former Bradford City man is focused purely on helping Sunderland towards the Championship – whoever it is that finds the back of the net.
“As a striker I want to add more goals,” said Wyke.
“I know it's frustrating at times, but the main thing this year is to get out the league and get promoted.
“As long as we're winning, who cares who scores?”
Phil Parkinson has kept faith with Wyke despite the January arrival of Kyle Lafferty, who has so far been limited to cameos from the bench.
It’s a testament to the performances of the striker that he has been able to keep the winter arrival out the side, having contributed heavily to Sunderland’s rise up the League One table following the turn of the year.
But how has Wyke viewed his personal form?
“I think I've been playing well,” he admitted.
“I think I've been a big part of the team and we have been playing well and getting results so I don't think you can complain.
“If I was playing, wasn't scoring and we weren't winning then we'd be getting a bit of stick, but I think everyone who's playing at the minute is doing well so long may it continue.”
There have been calls, however, for Parkinson to ring the changes in the forward areas in a bid to freshen up the attack.
Wyke, though, refuses to look at any critique of his performances on social – whether positive or negative.
“If you asked any of the lads, they don't look at it,” he added.
“Even when we win, there's point looking at it because you're one defeat away from getting a lot of stick.
“There's no point really looking at it.”