Danny Batth has backed 'pest' Joe Gelhardt to be a hit at Sunderland. Striker Gelhardt joined the Black Cats on loan from Leeds United late in the transfer window and made his debut in last weekend's Championship draw at Millwall, having been ineligible for the FA Cup fourth tie - and replay - against Fulham because he is cup-tied.
But the 20-year-old is set to return to the starting XI tomorrow when Sunderland resume their league campaign against Reading at the Stadium of Light. Gelhardt was originally signed to work in tandem with top scorer Ross Stewart, but Stewart has since suffered a season-ending Achilles injury which means Gelhardt will find himself centre-stage in the final three months of the season.
And experienced defender Batth believes the youngster will soon settle into the side. "He's sharp, he can pose a threat in behind," said Batth.
