Phil Parkinson's verdict on surprise Sunderland goalkeeper call and what happens next

Parkinson sprung a surprise ahead of the 2-1 defeat to MK Dons last Saturday by handing a first league start to Matthews, who he had managed at Bolton Wanderers.

The Sunderland boss confirmed on Friday that an ankle problem for Burge was part of the reason for his decision.

Parkinson also said that he wanted Anthony Patterson to push both of his senior goalkeepers over the course of the season.

Patterson has impressed Parkinson in an U23 side that has seen an uplift in results at the start of the campaign, and performed well in the 2-1 Papa John's Trophy defeat to Fleetwood Town last week.

"The thought behind it was that Remi had done well in his previous game," Parkinson said.

"Lee Burge had been carrying a slight knock with his ankle that was affecting his ankle, and so we went with Remi.

"It's not the case that Remi is now our number one.

"We've got three good goalkeepers at the club. I want competition and I think, rather than saying one is categorically first choice, I want them all to believe that they can get in the team.

"I feel we've got that and it's good competition to have.

"Anthony is without a doubt part of that. He came in for the Fleetwood game and showed what he can do. He trains with the first team every day and is pushing hard, which is good."

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