Gardner: Poyet has players smiling
Sunderland's Craig Gardner says the squad have been encouraged to "play with a smile" by new manager Gus Poyet.
Gardner told BBC Radio Newcastle: "The new gaffer has come in and told us to enjoy training and now everyone is having fun, but working hard as well,"
"Anyone with a job would tell you that you only get your full potential when you are actually enjoying what you do."
"Obviously we can't smile too much if you look at the league table," Gardner continued.
"But there's a bit more buzz around after how we've played recently and there's excitement for the next game [at Swansea on Saturday]."
"Gus tells us what he wants from us but he also asks the players where they think their best position is," Gardner added.
"Obviously I'd prefer to be playing in central midfield and he's going to give the players a chance - that's what everyone deserves.
"The same goes for Phil Bardsley. There's no doubt about his ability and hopefully he does get that chance to play, because I think if you're a midfielder you should play in midfield, if you're a right-back you should play at right-back."