Lee Johnson has this verdict on Ross Stewart's debut and Sunderland's win at Accrington Stanley

The winter signing from Ross County impressed from the bench at the Wham Stadium and opened the scoring with a well-taken header.

His introduction sparked a much-improved second half for the Black Cats who had to battle for the win against John Coleman’s side.

And the Black Cats’ endeavour left Johnson pleased at full-time.

"I thought we showed good attitude and good energy,” he said.

"It was a difficult game. Obviously it was a battle, it was always going to be a battle – a footballing battle. Both sides tried to play but at times it did get scrappy and we had to deal with it.

"It was a good change in terms of big Rosco ready to come on. I think we needed a bit more of a platform, it was asking Charlie to do a lot against three big lads so just a little tactical tweak there and we’re delighted for him.

“We’ve missed him, I think, and now it’s one game, one goal, one medal!”

So with the striker now off the mark, does Johnson believe he can go on to become a key player?

"I hope so.

"We signed him to be a key part of the squad. We spent money, and no-one is really spending money, so I think it goes to show how much we believe in him.

"I think it was a coup. He’s tall, he’s mobile, he’s got a good touch and he’s big.

"No disrespect to Ross County, but he’ll probably be getting more chances in our team maybe than he did.

"He spent a lot of time defending for Ross and here, hopefully he can spend a lot of time attacking.

"Very pleased with that one and delighted for him. It’s a big club to come to and sometimes it can be a bit frustrating for the lad. He’s come in with an injury, he’s had a re-occurence and he needs to find his gravitas.

"He’s taken a step towards that today.”

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.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

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