'On fire!': Lee Cattermole hails this key Sunderland man after crucial Ipswich Town win

The former Sunderland midfielder was speaking on Sky Sports’ coverage of the win at Portman Road – a game in which Wyke scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 win.

And Cattermole says his form could prove key to a promotion push, with the striker having now netted seven league goals since the arrival of Lee Johnson.

“If you want to try and get out the division, you need your number nine doing what Charlie is doing for the club,” said the former Black Cat.

"I'm chuffed for him because he turned up at the club with an injury and he had to work really hard. It's taken a real bit of quality on the night. It's a nice ball from Max and Charlie is in the right area.

"You look at one of his recent goals and he was going in behind, and tonight he really stretched the game.

"He was always on the shoulder trying to stretch the game and if you put the ball in the right area he's going to be there between the posts. That's where he's going to get his goals.”

"Suddenly you're going out into the game thinking you've got a chance,” he continued.

"If you keep a clean sheet you know you've got a guy on fire. It breeds confidence throughout the whole squad as well. Hopefully other people start chipping in as well.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor:

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

We’ve launched a new transfer window special offer for readers to get 20% off our subscription package.

Use the promo code TRANSFER20 to sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor