Denver Hume has this response to his critics as he discusses his Sunderland form

The Sunderland academy graduate has been a near ever-present for the Black Cats this term, but has been perceived as a weak link by some quarters of the club’s support.

But Hume says he takes no notice of any negative views on his performance and is instead solely focused on continuing his own progression – while also helping Sunderland climb the League One table.

“I don’t really look at it,” he admitted.

“I don’t really take notice of criticism.

“Obviously everyone’s going to get it and you’ve just got to take it as it comes.

“Obviously, I’m a young player, trying to improve every week. So my job’s just focusing on what I do on the pitch and go from there.”

Hume has scarcely missed a game since Phil Parkinson arrived at the Stadium of Light, with the club’s manager placing a great deal of faith in the youngster.

Indeed, he has so far resisted the temptation to play the more experienced Declan John - thanks in part to Hume’s string of performances.

“It's hard on Declan because he's come in and done well in training, he played well on Wednesday and he's pushing for a place,” said Parkinson, speaking last month.

“But I've got to be fair to Denver, he's had a very very good run and played well.”

For Hume, that show of support has proved crucial.

He feels that the faith placed in him by Parkinson has allowed his performances to consistently improve.

“I’ve really enjoyed it since the gaffer’s came in and I’ve played pretty much every game so I’ve thoroughly enjoyed that run of games,” added the wing-back.

“I’m just working to keep improving and taking each game as it comes. We’ll then see where that takes me at the end of the season.

“The gaffer has been first class with me since he came in. He’s put a lot of confidence in me, put a lot of trust in me, and I think that’s probably shown in my performances as well.”