Former Black Cats captain Gary Bennett shared his full-time analysis with BBC Radio Newcastle's Sunderland commentator Nick Barnes after Regis le Bris' side sealed their spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 3-2 win over in-form Brentford.

"Le Bris got it spot on but you also have to give credit to Brentford," Bennett said. "They will look back on that game wondering if they could've forced a draw or even won it because they did have some opportunities.

"It was definitely an improvement in defence for Sunderland. It was a learning curve for the majority of the players and there were some excellent performances.

"Malick Fofana will grow in confidence after getting his first goal with that header. Jocelin Ta Bi was the player who stood out most. He was outstanding in everything he did, especially going forward. He was involved in all three goals and he will only get better. It is a performance that will do him the world of good.

"It goes to show how much strength in depth and quality we have. They all did well, but are any of them pushing for Sunday's starting XI against Coventry City? I wouldn't think so.

"The only player pushing a starting place is Habib Diarra. He played 45 minutes, which will do him the world of good, and he is looking fit.

"Dayann Methalie also did well out there at left-back. He is strong, quick and aggressive. He is another young player who will develop with time.

"They did themselves no harm at all with that performance."