Don Goodman: Sunderland goalkeeper Patterson one of top three in Championship

Don Goodman believes Anthony Patterson's importance to Sunderland shouldn't be undermined and that he's one of the best in the Championship.

Patterson's importance to the side has sometimes been questioned by supporters, and a perhaps poor bit of goalkeeping that led to the opening goal in their 2-1 victory against Stoke raised further concerns.

The Sunderland Academy prospect, according to the Daily Mail, has been courted by Manchester United ahead of a potential January swoop.

However, Goodman exclusively told Mackem News that Patterson is a "key element" and the Black Cats cant let him leave.

"I wouldn't underplay [his importance], to be honest with you," Goodman explained. "I think he's one of the best goalkeepers in the Championship. In fact probably along with Michael Cooper and maybe James Trafford at Burnley I probably could argue they're your top three. So I wouldn't underplay how important he is.

"So yeah you can't let him go. It's as simple as that. I just think that he's a key element. They've got one of the best defences in the league. Anthony Patterson will be a part of that.

"Even if it's not him making saves, it's as a defender knowing that you've got a great goalkeeper behind you if you are conceding shots and chances. So for me, yes, he's one of the top goalkeepers in the Championship but there's no way I'd be letting him leave not yet."

Anthony Patterson is a solid Championship goalkeeper for Sunderland

Is he the best in the country like some would lead you to believe? No. Is he the worst? Certainly not.

Patterson is a very good Championship goalkeeper and Sunderland are fortunate to have him for now as he will be of interest to various clubs.

His shot-stopping ability is usually second to none while his distribution often leads plenty to be desired.

However, that's part of the parcel when it comes to Championship keepers and, if there are any concerns in the squad, he is certainly not one of them.

Ultimately, as long as promotion remains the aim for Sunderland, Patterson will have a key role to play in that between the sticks.

In other Sunderland news, Tommy Watson proves youth can prevail at the Stadium of Light.

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