Gordon calls for response

Sunderland keeper eyes Boro win

By Graeme Bailey   Last updated: 22nd April 2008

Craig Gordon

Gordon: Ready for Boro derby

It's undoubtedly one of the biggest games in the club's recent history. For most of the players in the dressing room, it will also be one of the biggest games they've played in their career.

Craig Gordon
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Craig Gordon says this weekend's North East derby with Middlesbrough is the biggest game in Sunderland's recent history.

The derby loss to Newcastle means Sunderland are still involved in the relegation battle, as are Boro, with both teams sat on 36 points - five points above the drop zone.

A point would virtually secure safety for both clubs and a win would guarantee it and Gordon admits the squad needs to bounce back on Saturday.

"The dressing room is very low but we've a big game against Middlesbrough. That has to be the most important thing now," he said.

"We're still not safe. This weekend's game has become massive.

"It's undoubtedly one of the biggest games in the club's recent history.

"For most of the players in the dressing room, it will also be one of the biggest games they've played in their career.

"There's so much riding on it for both clubs, and we know what a victory would mean in terms of remaining in the Premier League.

"We've bounced back from disappointing results on a number of occasions this season, but Sunday's result means we have to do it one more time.

"There are two home games left, and this Saturday's is the most important one because if we get three points, we'll be pretty much safe.

"The manager was talking about the importance of the Middlesbrough game as soon as he came into the dressing room on Sunday.

"We're still not safe. The Birmingham result on Sunday went our way and that meant we were no worse off, but that won't mean anything unless we use it to our advantage this weekend."

Duo blow

Phil Bardsley and Jonny Evans both missed the match at Newcastle and the pair are a major doubts for the clash with Boro.

They were sorely missed at Newcastle but Gordon says that cannot be an excuse for their display at St James' Park.

"Jonny and Phil were big losses for us (at Newcastle)," said Gordon.

"It's no good making excuses now, but losing them so close to kick-off was disappointing.

"They've been key players for us in recent months, and they've been important to the way the defence has played.

"But we have players in the squad that can come in and fill those positions, and we're all going to have to pull together in the last three games.

"Unfortunately, as a team, we didn't really do that against Newcastle."