This is why under-fire Phil Parkinson did not face the press after Sunderland's draw with Blackpool

Matty Virtue put Blackpool ahead after just four minutes following a shocking piece of defending from the Black Cats, who had four attempts to clear the ball.

Charlie Wyke hit back with a smart volley with the two sides going in level at the break. Sunderland then had George Dobson sent off for a second yellow card and neither side could snatch the win.

Sunderland now 12th in League One, four points off the play-off places ahead of a 12-day break before the visit of Bolton Wanderers on Boxing Day.

Parkin was standing in for under-fire Phil Parkinson post-match, stressing nothing should be read into that

On the game, Parkin said: “Disappointed with the first four minutes when we conceded. After that it was a good reaction to conceding the goal.

“The aspects of our play early on were a little bit apprehensive.

“The first half at the end of it we grew into the game and showed more bravery on the ball, it was important to get on the ball and we played some good stuff.

“We got back into the game.”

Parkin added: “We had a chat about body language being important and reaction to disappointment important too.

“The lads took it on board and there are no guarantees you will score first.

“If you go behind you need to see a reaction, the lads showed a good reaction and sticking to the game plan.

“Good to see Charlie score a good goal to get us back in it.

“The lads showed a lot of character.”

Parkin was standing in for Parkinson for post-match press duties at the Stadium of Light.

When asked by the Echo why Parkinson was not facing questions post-match, as fans would expect, Parkin explained: “He just wanted a change from it, I think he has had a busy week, his voice is about as good as mine.

“We have had plenty to say this week on the training ground and probably just wanted a break from it.”