Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill admits Sebastian Larsson has been a revelation for him.
The Swedish schemer has been the talisman for O'Neill's great start at the Stadium of Light that has produced six wins and a draw in nine games.
"He works tirelessly for you. He has a great delivery. Seb can come up trumps with free kicks - which he has done.
"They have been life-saving for us."O'Neill said: "Sebastian Larsson has had a major impact. I think he was doing pretty well under Steve Bruce and I was delighted to inherit him. His contribution to the team since I came has been tremendous and there is no doubt he is a key figure in helping us win so many games.
