Steven Fletcher Named Barclay's Player Of The Month For September

Life on Wearside just keeps getting better for Steven Fletcher. Having scored five goals in his opening four games in the red and white stripes, he remains the only man to have scored in the league for the Black Cats this term.

Now, after a summer in which Sunderland's pursuit of the Scotsman was often derided, Fletcher's undoubted quality has been recognised, with Barclay's presenting him as September's Premier League Player of the Month.

Though such awards are often easily forgotten, it is not hard to think that this vindicates the tireless pursuit of Fletcher by manager Martin O'Neill over the summer period. Sunderland's supremo was adamant that he would get his man, even when figures bandied about reached as high as £15m, and ultimately it has proven a shrewd move.

Talking to SAFC.com, Fletcher was quick to downplay his own individual achievements in favour of discussing the accomplishments of his new team-mates:

I'm obviously pleased with the reward but results are more important.

To stay unbeaten in September was a real positive for the lads and I'm pleased I grabbed a few goals as well.

Sunderland fans far and wide will be hoping the award doesn't curse their new striker - a continuance of his good form in the next match, against local rivals Newcastle United, could be just what the Black Cats need to kick their season properly into gear.