After disappointing defeats by Tottenham and Fulham, Lampard made a bold decision to make four changes including moving his captain to the bench.

He also restored summer signing Taiwo Awoniyi to the starting line-up for the first time since he was sent off in a 5-0 defeat by Brighton on 13 September.

The changes helped restore some energy to the Sky Blues, but they were also clinical as they scored three goals from four shots on target and an XG of just 0.71.

Two of the goals also had a touch of fortune given that deflections helped take them beyond Sunderland keeper Robin Roefs.

But it was a huge win for Lampard and his side against fellow strugglers, and the manager's team-selection was backed up with an important three points.

Coventry have lost as many games as Sunderland but, crucially, they have three victories under their belt.