Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris praised the consistency of his players after the 1-0 win against Portsmouth. Wilson Isidor’s eighth goal of the Championship campaign proved decisive, extending the Black Cats’ unbeaten run at the Stadium of Light to 13 games.

Despite missed chances to extend the lead, Sunderland held firm to weather a late wave of attacks from 10-man Portsmouth after Marlon Pack had been shown a straight red card in the second half. The victory concluded a demanding period of five games in 15 days and narrowed the gap to league leaders Leeds United to just three points, while also extending Sunderland’s place in the play-off spots to 11 points.

Le Bris said: “It was important to win because it’s tough to get results in this league, especially during a demanding festive period like this, with five games in 15 days. We struggled to deal with their direct style of play in the first half and didn’t win enough first contacts, but the second half was better.

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“We created many chances and scored early, but unfortunately, the second goal didn’t come, which left us under pressure until the end. This league is tough, but we’ve been consistent, and that’s the key message.”

He continued: “With the set-up we have, our pace in attack gives us two big threats in behind. No defence enjoys facing quick players, and it’s a very difficult challenge for opponents. Early on, we were able to create danger, which is good for the team. Having these options gives us flexibility for the future.”