Winston Reid topped off another great performance with a precious goal and then demanded more and more points from the Irons.

Reid  was in commanding presence at the back – barking orders and being a real team leader – before coming up with the goal that set off wild celebrations around the stadium.

And the defender said afterwards: “Obviously I’m happy that we got the three points and we can continue to move up the table.

“I was a bit surprised to find myself in that position. Dimi has got the ball and I fancied him more than me, so I was expecting him to shoot, but he passed it to me. I managed to get my head up and was aware of the situation, fired off a shot and it went in.”

Black Cats boss David Moyes complained bitterly the goal was offside with Jonathon Calleri standing in the eye line of the keeper Jordan Pickford’s vision but TV  replays suggested otherwise, and referee Bobby Madley allowed the goal to stand.

Reid said: “There wasn’t any talk about that after the game – I think we were just happy to get the win, obviously.
“There is always going to be debate about those sorts of decisions, but fortunately it went our way. I haven’t seen the footage, but I’m just happy for the win, really.

“We need to pick up more and more points. We’ve got a young squad – Edimilson is one and he came in and did very well for us in that position – so it’s important that they don’t feel there is pressure on them, and a lot of us senior players have been talking about that.