Gordon has kept five clean sheets in 2008 (Getty Images)

Sunderland keeper Craig Gordon believes his team mates have grown in confidence with every match in the Premier League this season.

Gordon, 25, has kept five of his seven clean sheets since the turn of the year and feels the squad has finally found their feet in the top flight.

"We've come on leaps and bounds and I think it's been a progression for the players," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"As the season goes on we've definitely improved and we're still improving."

We have to be a 100% concentrated and make sure we maintain that cushion Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon

Last weekend's win against Aston Villa eased the pressure on Sunderland and re-established the four-point gap between them and the relegation zone.

But Gordon is aware the Black Cats need to maintain their momentum.

"A lot can change, a few weeks ago we had that but then it evaporated and then we got it back again," he said.

"We have to be a 100% concentrated and make sure we maintain that cushion."