Sunderland Football Club News

• Nickname:Black Cats
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Martin O'Neill

• Ground:Stadium of light
• Capacity:48,353

Gordon earns Burley's praise

02 Apr 2009 - 08:24:28

Click To Enlarge

Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon was picked out for special praise by Scotland boss George Burley after Wednesday's 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over Iceland.

The 26-year-old former Hearts shot-stopper has not played a Premier League game for the Black Cats this year after losing his place to Marton Fulop but produced a fine display to keep the visitors out time and time again.

Burley said: "When I had Craig at Hearts, and with Scotland, I always believe he will save everything because he's so good.

"He hasn't had ideal preparation as far as league games are concerned but he's a top-class international keeper. There's no doubt about that.

"Yet again, he pulled off a fabulous save at the end.

"I'm very pleased. I thought we battled away. The second game is always the toughest in international football.

"We worked hard and did a lot of chasing in Saturday's game in Holland. Overall, I thought we deserved the three points.

"There were some exceptional individual performances, especially from our younger players. I think that's very encouraging for the future and it keeps things alive, which was so important."