Jordan Blinco is relishing the start of Sunderland under-23s' Premier League 2 campaign.
The forward enjoyed a loan spell at Norwegian side Bergsoy at the back end of last season which saw him clock up some valuable minutes.
Now back on Wearside, Blinco is vying to break into Andy Welsh's development side following a challenging fitness-fuelled pre-season.
And with the Lads opening league fixture – a home match against Chelsea - little over a week away, Blinco told safc.com preparations have been tough but everyone is raring to go.
"We needed to get fitter and our trip to Spain was great for the team," he revealed.
"The heat helped us get fitter and the time away allowed us to bond as well.
"Hopefully I can kick on this season because it's great to be back at Sunderland. My loan was a good experience as I was able to try a different type of football.
"I had to adapt quickly because it’s a slower pace in Norway but nevertheless it was a great experience," he continued.
"I feel really fit and I'm sure all the lads do to. What's important though is that we continue to work hard ahead of the start of the season because it will be a tough year."
