How Sunderland's goalkeeping union is growing stronger than ever - thanks to a key Phil Parkinson appointment

Burge has largely been forced to play second fiddle to McLaughlin this term, with his last appearance for the Black Cats coming against Burton Albion on November 26.

But the 27-year-old still feels his game has come on leaps and bounds since swapping Coventry City for Sunderland last summer.

Sunderland’s players are currently training alone at home, with the club’s training ground closed and the squad working remotely, but Burge remains in close contact with club staff.

That includes Butler – with the stopper hailing Phil Parkinson’s decision to raid former club Bolton Wanderers for the popular goalkeeping coach.

“It's been great,” said the stopper of working with Butler.

“He's come in and has been great with me. He's worked a lot with me and I feel like I've improved under him.

“He is working me very hard and that's all I want, especially when you're out of the team as you've got to keep doing extra and keep on your toes to be ready for the team if you're needed.

“He was a good goalie when he was playing, and it's good to be with him and learn from him every day.”

So too is Burge learning from McLaughlin – who after a shaky spell just after Parkinson’s appointment on Wearside, has re-established himself as one of the best stoppers in the EFL.

And his experience, which includes time spent in the top tier of Scottish football and as part of the international scene, is proving a great resource for Burge to draw upon.

Indeed, such mutual-respect means there is no bad blood between the pair when tough decisions have to be made.

“I think Jon is great,” added Burge.

“When I first came here he was someone that I wanted to come and learn from, and he was great with me when I was in the team.

“It's now vice-versa, and as long as I help the team in any way then that's what I want to do.”