Sunderland midfielder Kieran Richardson says a new surge of confidence is running through the club after victory over Portsmouth.

The former Manchester United youngster is clearly relishing his big chance under boss Roy Keane and insists confidence has never been a problem despite his new side's struggle so far this season.

Richardson said: "The spirit has never been bad and everyone around the place is always buzzing. We've got a great manager and great supporters and if we stick together we'll be fine."

Richardson admits his latest injury setback was a major source of frustration having been persuaded to move to the north-east in search of more regular first team action.

He added: "I didn't get as many chances as I liked with Manchester United but that's the end of that chapter and it's a new one now and hopefully I can progress on."