Michael Gray is urging his young team mates not to let the pressure of being amongst the promotion favourites effect their performance.

As one of the team's most experienced players, Michael is quick to remind everyone of the fortunes of one of his former clubs just 12 months ago.

"Last season I don't think Sunderland got a point from their first five games and then went on a terrific run - and look where they finished up," he said.

"If we can do something similar, we won't be far short.

"Since I came in the talent in the squad has been obvious. It's all about getting the best out of individuals and if we can do that there's no reason why we can't be one of the best in the division."

The defender was a second half substitute against Hull on Tuesday and his lively performance earned him the sponsors' Man of the Match award. He add: "I don't think the enthusiasm of the lads has ever been in doubt, but everybody was tipping us as favourites and maybe that is getting to a few people.

"We've got to put that to the back of our minds because from the start we have always known that it was going to be a tough league.

"The team that goes on the most consistent runs are the ones that will be there or thereabouts, and there's no question that we will be up amongst it."