Sunderland boss reacts to Callum McFadzean's encouraging debut and Elliot Embleton's return

McFadzean’s lively performance was one of the few positives for the Black Cats as they were dumped out of the FA Cup by a Mansfield Town side who had not won a competitive game all season.

The former Plymouth and Bury wing-back should have had an assist early in the contest, his cross header onto the crossbar by Danny Graham from a matter of yards.

McFadzean also drew a fine save from Mansfield goalkeeper Marek Stech late in the first half.

With just 45 mintues of U23 action under his belt since arriving at the club, Parkinson says bringing McFadzean off for the last 15 minutes was in order to protect him from a possible injury.

“It was early for Callum to play,” Parkinson said.

“He's only been with us a couple of weeks but with Denver and Goochy being out, we decided to play him.

“I had to protect him by bringing him off towards the end, because we don't want him getting injured going forward.

“But he showed what he is all about, and put in three of four top class deliveries.

“He's different to Denver in the way he gets into those areas, but he can be equally effective.

“I think he'll be a good signing for us,” he added.

“Jack on the other flank, it was a difficult start for him but he got better as the game went on.

“He put some decent deliveries, looked dangerous, and will be disappointed with that shot he put into the side netting.

“Those are the defining moments in football, and he'll learn from that and get better.”

Parkinson was also pleased to see Elliot Embleton back in action.

The talented youngster has been missing due to injury for over a year, but almost produced an assist for Charlie Wyke, whose header was saved by Stech in the closing minutes.

Embleton is set to step up his comeback with a starting role against Fleetwood in the Papa John’s Trophy on Tuesday night.

“Embo showed some good touches when he came on, and put a great cross in for Charlie's header,” Parkinson said.

“He showed what he's about, he has good quality with both feet.”