Phil Parkinson defends Denver Hume as calls for Declan John's Sunderland debut grow louder

Hume once again started in the left wing-back role against Coventry City, maintaining his status as a near ever-present under Parkinson.

But it was a difficult afternoon for the Sunderland academy graduate, as the Sky Blues focused a volume of their attacks down the Black Cats’ left flank – while Hume was also found wanting in an attacking sense.

And while some fans were calling for John – who joined on a half-season loan from Swansea City on deadline day – to be handed a first start, Parkinson has defended Hume while also explaining his decision to substitute the youngster in the second half.

“He was up against a good player today in [Fankaty] Dabo,” said the Sunderland boss.

“I thought it was a good battle between the two wing-backs and we just wanted to get Goochy out there and get an extra striker on the pitch. I thought Goochy had some decent moments towards the end as well.”

Parkinson, though, insists that John is ‘pushing for a place’ in his side – but Hume’s good form has seen him given the nod of late.

“It's hard on Declan because he's come in and done well in training, he played well on Wednesday and he's pushing for a place.

“But I've got to be fair to Denver, he's had a very very good run and played well.”