Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has paid tribute to Nyron Nosworthy.
Nosworthy was outstanding in the 1-1 draw at Portsmouth last weekend.
Bruce was delighted with the man of the match performance from the 29-year-old, who confirmed his popularity with home fans with a wholehearted, fun-filled display.
He said: "I gave Nyron a new deal a few months ago and he is sort of becoming a cult hero here and I can understand why.
"He epitomises what I like in a footballer. He might not be naturally blessed with skills but, by God, he gives you everything he has got and he certainly gives me headache.
"He was arguably our best player on Saturday. I keep putting that down to the squad that you get your chance and you take it, and to be fair to "Nuggsie" he did that. With Phil coming back into the fray from suspension it gives me a nice sort of headache rather than no headache at all."