GRANT Leadbitter has cited the influence of Sunderland's experienced players have had on his impressive run of form.

The midfielder, who turns 21 next month, netted the second goal in the 2-0 win over Leeds United on Boxing Day.

Leadbitter has now scored three goals in two games, after bagging Sunderland's first goal in their late comeback draw at Burnley on December 16.

Seasoned campaigners like Dwight Yorke and Graham Cavanagh have added both competition and know-how to the Black Cats midfield, and Leadbitter does not underestimate their roles.

"Yorkie's been fantastic since he came to the club,'' he said.

"There are a lot of good players at the club and a lot of strong characters and it's just good to be part of it.

"Dwight doesn't have a specific role (off the field) but this is Dwight Yorke we're talking about. If he's going to give you any advice you're going to take it, aren't you?

"He's good to have around the dressing room, like Kav.

"Kav's been terrific with me. He gives you advice and if there's anything needs to be said, Kav usually says it. with former Manchester United youth coach Everyone makes mistakes but I think Kav's been very good since he's come here.''

With manager Roy Keane having few midfield equals during his playing days, Leadbitter is in a prime position to improve his game.

"You're always in awe of him (Keane) because of the kind of person he is,'' he admitted. "But he gives you confidence to go out and enjoy your football and I'm really enjoying it at the minute.

"He was new to management so I didn't know what to expect but he's done well. Every day in training he tries to make sure we enjoy ourselves. I love coming into training at the moment.''

He added: "The manager just gives you confidence to go out and play and enjoy it. He tells you to go out and enjoy the game and if you do you'll play well.

"I was never worried about my place at all because he always kept me involved. When he first came to the club he brought some very good midfield players in and when that happens he's got to try them out.

"There are six very good midfield players at this club so you've got to be playing well to keep the shirt.

"I feel part of it. I feel part of the team and I'm just happy with the way things are going at the minute.''

Leadbitter, with 24 Championship appearances to his name this season, was part of the Sunderland side which was thumped 4-1 at Preston North End back in October.

It was a game which proved how much Sunderland needed to improve in the wake of Keane's appointment.

But, after just four defeats in the 14 games since that miserable performance, Sunderland have grown in stature and determination.

And Leadbitter admitted: "We've got a point to prove. We want revenge.

"We were disappointed with the last game, both for the fans and ourselves, but most importantly we want three points on Saturday."

l Keane could be about to make a new addition to his coaching staff, with ex-Manchester United academy coach Neil Bailey understood to be close to moving to the Stadium of Light.