Reid hails togetherness of squad

Apr 28 2008 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

ANDY Reid believes Sunderland’s last-gasp winner against Middlesbrough was a fitting way for the Black Cats to confirm their Premier League safety.

Daryl Murphy’s late header means Roy Keane’s side have won nine extra points with injury-time goals this season and Reid (pictured right) believes that statistic illustrates the character and spirit which has helped keep them in the top flight.

He said: “It is brilliant for everyone. For the fans, for the players, and for the manager and chairman – everybody. Now we can look forward to next season and improving and not be looking at a relegation battle. That has got to be the aim for us.

“One thing we have done really well is stick together when things have not gone well. Everyone has got behind everyone else.

“We have had setbacks, but what we did today – coming up with a win in the last few minutes – is not the first time we have done that and it shows character and belief which we have in abundance.”

Reid joined Sunderland’s survival fight from Charlton Athletic in the January transfer window, but the stocky midfielder has been an inspired signing, adding craft and guile to midfield.

Like all the squad, the Irishman cannot be certain of his place in the side next season as Keane will bring in several new faces. But he is determined to enjoy what he has helped the club achieve.

He added: “I was on the outside looking in at the start of the season. You could see it was going to be important for the club to keep in the running until January and then maybe bring in some players to bolster the squad, which is what happened.

“We have had a strong second half of the season and done a lot of things which we have not done for quite a while like getting the first away win, then back to back victories, then three wins on the bounce. That has made it a good season.

“I had been to this club a few times before I joined and when you look at the stadium and the training facilities you don’t need anyone to tell you this club does belong in the Premiership.

“However, as I know more than most, you don’t always get what you deserve. Just because it is a big club you don’t have the right to be in the Premier League or even the Championship, look at Nottingham Forest or Leeds United.’’