SUNDERLAND striker Charlie Wyke has told manager Jack Ross that he can form a formidable forward line with in-form Josh Maja.

Maja has tended to be the one constant in the Black Cats’ attacking line-up regadless of what system has been played by Ross.

Many feel the style of play of Wyke means it would be a battle between him and the five-goal teenager for a starting spot in League One.

But Wyke, who has only just returned from the knee injury he was carrying when he signed for £1m from Bradford, is convinced the two can link up well together in the final third.

He said: “We are different to each other. Josh is a quality young player and I think we can develop a good understanding if we play together. We will find out in the next few weeks when I get match fit.”

Wyke has emerged from the bench in the last two league games and scored on his debut against Oxford. He also played a full 90 minutes against Stoke City Under-21s in the Checkatrade Trophy.

The 25-year-old’s goal was a neat little flick from Lynden Gooch’s low delivery across the penalty area, and he thinks his time on the sidelines has actually helped him understand more about how the team and the players play.

Wyke said: “The way I scored on my debut is definitely what I have been watching Lynden do for the last few weeks, so I almost knew what he was going to do before he did it in that game.

“I just knew he was going to deliver a low drive across the box and that has helped me a little being able to watch from the side. It’s not ideal not playing but it has helped being able to watch.”