Phil Parkinson opens up about the 'tremendous' Sunderland support after fans chant his name following remarkable turnaround

Fans turned on Parkinson following a drab goalless draw at home to strugglers Bolton Wanderers, Sunderland dropping to a record low 15th in the third tier with play-off and automatic promotion hopes fading fast.

The recent form has been truly stunning with just one defeat in 14 games, including four straight wins and clean sheets following the loss at Portsmouth.

Sunderland’s defensive record is the best in the country with eight clean sheets since January 1.

Parkinson was under intense pressure after overseeing a dismal start but since then the turnaround has been barely believable.

The players are fitter, the new system adopted by Parkinson proving hugely effective at both ends of the pitch, he is getting the best out of Lynden Gooch and Chris Maguire, a settled side, system and style of play has helped forge a new-found spirit and confidence.

Hopes of winning automatic promotion are now high and realistic.

Midway through the second half, fans in the Roker End starting chanting ‘Parky, Parky, give us a wave.’ He duly obliged with a fist-pump.

Parkinson said: “It's great, but the supporters have been tremendous recently.

“I said to the lads before the game that it's important the intensity of our play is right, the closing down is right, the work ethic is there, because those elements have got the supporters right behind you and have made this an enjoyable place for you to play.

“We've got to keep it there by putting those qualities into place, because the fans want to see honesty and they're getting that.

“But on top of that, they're also getting quality and they've been great.”

Parkinson was modest but his influence cannot be underestimated. He also knows the job is only half done.

He added: “We're enjoying this run and the important thing now is that we sustain it. Everyone else is winning around us, and you do expect the top teams to keep winning.

“But we have to make sure that our run lasts longer than everyone else's.”