Mile Jedinak had a brilliant game against Sunderland on Saturday, but from now on let’s take that for granted every week unless stated otherwise.

It’s awe-inspiring to see the midfielder look so nonchalantly dominant and imposing every game.

However, somehow the Australian seems to have added to his usual commanding defensive cover with some brilliant forward runs right through to the edge of the opposition’s box, capitalising on Sunderland’s appalling organisation.

Only poor off the ball runs by teammates on two occasions meant Jedinak was forced into speculative long-range efforts.

More surprising was another impressive performance by KG. His renewed and revitalised midfield partnership with Jedinak is a brilliantly powerful combination.

Also, in attacking positions the meaty South African helped create the goalmouth confusion which led to the scrappy first goal - with the help of Danny Gabbidon’s unknowing shin

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Impressive: KG takes on Sunderland     SP78364

Another in a long line of man of the match contenders, Joel Ward further endeared himself to the Eagles faithful with his quick and composed wing play.

Defensively he’s snappy and committed while going forward he’s instinctive, speedy and threatening, making good decisions and keeping play moving.

At the same time, Jason Puncheon deserves a mention for his contribution to our steadily improving counter-attacking moves.

The Southampton loanee is fast, loves cutting inside from the wing to shoot and displayed both strength and control to set up Stuart O’Keefe’s wonderful injury time strike.

Last but certainly not least is Dwight Gayle, already drawing some over-enthusiastic and probably over the top comparisons to Andy Johnson (and even Ian Wright).

Nevertheless, the young attacker displayed some beautiful touches and link up play, intelligently rapid runs and a magnificently cool head to put the penalty away in front of the Holmesdale.

Certainly, his head was a lot cooler than mine at the time, as I anxiously half-watched the goal from between my fingers.

If the opening two games of the season were positive but ultimately fruitless and disappointing, Saturday’s victory should mean a huge spike in morale at the club.

Our next game - after the excruciating international break - is at Old Trafford where we’ll need all the help we can get.

But finally feeling good about ourselves after a great win, plus the transfer window madness ending at long last, is the best possible platform to head to the home of the reigning Premier League champions.

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Comparisons: Some fans are comparing Dwight Gayle with Ian Wright - a little premature me thinks