Sunderland fell to their first defeat since August following a 4-0 loss to Portsmouth on Saturday afternoon.

However, a number of Black Cats supporters were quick to praise manager Lee Johnson for his post-match interview which was shared on the club’s official Twitter page.

The Wearsiders headed into the game eight games unbeaten in all competitions but found themselves 3-0 down at half-time. John Marquis got his second of the afternoon shortly after the hour mark to seal an emphatic win for the hosts, with Wigan leapfrogging Sunderland at the top of the table on goal difference.

Johnson apologised to the fans for the display, gave an honest assessment of the performance and provided an update on an injury to Aiden McGeady, with the full interview available to view here.

Sunderland fans react

Here is what these Sunderland fans had to say in reply to Johnson’s comments, with many praising him for his honesty and one labelling it as ‘brilliant’.

“This has made feel a lot better”

Credit: @OllyJames2733

“This is a very good interview. No dodging responsibility and no excuses. Just a rational response to a bad performance. You can tell that he’s not going to panic or rip up the blueprint, and that’s encouraging.”

Credit: @Philip_RJ89

“Brilliant interview. On to the next ”

Credit: @FulwellAdam

“Still love you Lee mate”

Credit: @Jamestweddell

“Please never leave”

Credit: @MattySunlun

“Up the LJ, we go again”

Credit: @NickJayThompson

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