This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…

Sunderland executive director Charlie Methven is pleased with what the team have produced since Phil Parkinson came in and believes the disappointing results are down to a lack of luck.

What did he say?

The Black Cats have been up and down since Parkinson took over, going from the highs of a 5-0 thrashing of Tranmere to a disappointing 1-0 defeat away at Shrewsbury a few days later.

Along with that, they have also been knocked out of the Carabao Cup on penalties against a high-flying Oxford side, leading Methven to suggest that the performances have begun to improve.

However, given Sunderland’s respective budget in comparison to most teams, and their aims this season, it is a little surprising that he should be so relaxed about matters – though it is in everyone’s best interest if he comes out in support of the new boss.

Speaking to ChronicleLive, he said:

It’s one thing being beaten fair and square. But quite another when you feel that the Gods are conspiring against you.

“In the last three away matches Sunderland have hit the woodwork no few than six times.

“We have been denied blatant penalties, and found a bewildering number of ways not to convert an array of clear chances.

“However, as the hours and days pass and the immediate sulk gradually lifts, the board is encouraged by the improvement in the level of performance.”

The director also noted that he is impressed with the levels of effort on display, and suggested that the coaching staff and players “will surely be rewarded” if they keep doing what they’re doing.

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Lack of quality?

It is good to see positivity around the club considering Parkinson has failed to make the desired impact straight away, as he and his players will need backing if they are to achieve their goal this year.

While it is true that the Black Cats have been dominant in the majority of the games they have played – boasting 52% average possession in League One – it may not be down to luck that they have not picked up more points.

Against Southend last weekend, for example, the Sunderland players missed several chances, and a lack of cutting edge in the final third isn’t simply a matter of luck, but lacking quality.

If that problem continues, it is important Methven and Co realise the real issues holding back Parkinson’s side, and address it when they have to opportunity to do so in January.

Will Grigg has just one league goal in 15 league games this campaign, and though they will be keen to see a return of that investment, they need to strengthen in that area, as neither he nor Marc McNulty currently look like they will score the goals to get the club promoted.