Dion Sanderson delivers this positive message ahead of Sunderland's play-off campaign following injury blow

The Wolves loanee was speaking to safc.com after collecting the Sunderland AFC supporters’ young player of the year award, with Sanderson having caught the eye during his loan spell on Wearside.

But the 21-year-old is set to miss the play-off games after a back injury saw his season brought to a premature end – as he joined the likes of Jordan Willis, Tom Flanagan and Arbenit Xhemajli on the treatment table.

Sanderson, though, remains confident that the Black Cats can secure promotion.

"I’ve got no doubts about it,” he said.

"I believe in this team and the lads believe in themselves and that’s the main thing.

"I think we’ve got a good mentality, a good group of boys, experienced players as well – so I believe we’ll kick on and finish the job.”

After struggling for opportunities under former manager Phil Parkinson, Sanderson became a regular under Lee Johnson and played a key part in driving Sunderland up the table.

And the defender has reflected fondly upon his time in the North East.

“My time here at Sunderland has been class,” said Sanderson.

"When I came here, all I wanted to do was just as much as I could to help the boys.

I had to work hard to get in the team to begin with – I was in and out of the squad at the start, but since the head coach came in, he gave me a chance and everything I feel has gone well.

"The fans have been absolutely class, and for me it couldn’t have gone any better.”

The defender is set to attend the home leg of the play-off semi-final with Lincoln on May 22 – and is looking forward to seeing Sunderland fans in the Stadium of Light for the first time.

"It’ll be amazing.

"It’s something I haven’t experienced yet and the lads tell me about it – the atmosphere is crazy.

"It’s always good to be around the boys and support them,” he continued.

"When I found out I was injured I was always going to be supporting the lads through thick and thin."

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