Bailey Wright claims Sunderland are in a much better place heading into the winter break with a win behind their sails. The Black Cats put in a dogged display on the road at Birmingham City to come away with just their second win in five games, which moved the into the top-half of the table on Friday night.
Results at the weekend meant Sunderland dropped back down to 15th in the table but are just four points away from the play-off places.
"I think we knew what we were going to be up against coming here against Birmingham," Wright told Sky Sports post-match. "They're a big physical side, very direct and we had to dig deep there towards the end and we did.
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"We showed a lot of character in a game that wasn't too pretty. A moment of quality from Amad [Diallo] is what was the difference.
"I thought it was a quality goal and really good team performance from everyone. It showed a different side to our game, a different side to our personality and our characteristics to what we normally are.
"Credit to the lads it was a good win. There's no football now for a good few weeks, it was important, we treated this game like a cup final, for us and for them.
"We go into the break now so much better going in with a win. Everything we do now is preparing for the next game and it's much more positive having got that win."
Wright will now jet off to Qatar with Australia to take part in the World Cup. A call that is also set to benefit Sunderland financially.
"It still feels a bit surreal to be honest," said Wright. "It's the biggest honour you can have in your career representing your country on the biggest stage possible, the biggest sporting event.
"For me, my family are extremely proud. First and foremost, I wanted to get the result here and go into it on a high.
"Now I've got that to look forward to and prepare for a massive World Cup for us Aussies."
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