Dickson Ethuhu knows Liam Miller is breathing down his neck as the battle for spots in Sunderland's midfield heats up.

Miller struck a late equaliser at Middlesbrough on Saturday and Etuhu admitted: "I wasn't surprised that Liam got such a great goal for us. He had been putting them away all week in training and his confidence was high.

"There's competition for all of us in the squad and Liam's goal showed that.

"He came off the bench and did his job, giving the manager something to think about.

"I think I have been a bit unlucky with two or three of the bookings, and I'm gutted to pick up a suspension so early in the season.

"It's a fast and furious league and you are going to get bookings.

"Of course, I'm gutted to miss the Blackburn game now, but we have got players who can come in and do a job.

"Liam has scored a great goal and will hope he gets the nod, but he's not the only one.

"Whoever comes in, I wish him all the best and hope he does well, but I will be back fighting for a place again afterwards."