'Pep Guardiola team would be proud' - Pundit delivers brilliant Jack Clarke verdict after stunning Sunderland success

The ex-Tottenham winger beat Blackburn Rovers’ Dominic Hyam, Stoke City’s Lewis Baker and Luton Town’s Henri Lansbury to the award.

An EFL statement read: “There is something mesmerising about back-to-front team goals. Seven players, four first-time passes and a caressed finish by Clarke. It was a fitting final touch to a beautifully crafted move.”

Clarke said: “I’m delighted to receive this award, but the goal was a real team effort from back to front and highlights the type of football we’ve been trying to play this season. We always look to play out from the back and the goal shows how effective it can be.”

Lead Sky Bet EFL Goal of the Month judge and Sky Sports Pundit Don Goodman said: “Ruthless efficiency from Tony Mowbray’s Sunderland, as they tore through Reading in a 7-pass sequence which a Pep Guardiola team would be proud of.

“It was Clarke that converted the chance coolly, but the whole team deserve credit for one of the most breath-taking moves you’re likely to see all season.”

Sunderland host Burnley on Saturday, with some positive news for the weeks ahead.

Sunderland hope that Daniel Ballard will join Ross Stewart in giving the squad a stronger look after the World Cup break, with Aji Alese also aiming to return then following his ankle injury in midweek.

And while Sunderland will continue to be cautious with him, Niall Huggins' successful first appearance in the U21s raises the prospect of his future return.