Elliot Embleton believes his progress during the 2016-17 season will be fuelled by confidence after the highly-rated youngster made his first-team debut against Borussia Dortmund.
A standout performer for the under-18s last season, Embleton made the step up to under-21 level earlier this year but he was called upon by David Moyes for the Black Cats’ final pre-season tripof the summer.
It proved to be a trip to remember with Embleton replacing Fabio Borini with six minutes remaining, and speaking to safc.com he admitted a first-team appearance against Dortmund would have been unfathomable just a few months ago.
“A few months ago if you told me I’d be playing against these players I would have told you to shut up,” said a delighted Embleton. “They’re world-class players who play for their countries and win the biggest trophies in the world, so it was the chance of a lifetime.
“Making my debut means the hard work I’ve been putting in has been noticed, and it was great to have a chance to play and show the new manager what I can do.”
He continued: “I have to keep working hard now but that won’t be a problem because I’ve been here since I was eight and haven’t missed a session.
“I know if I keep doing that I’ll get the chance to come and train and play with the first-team, so it was a brilliant reward because there is nothing better than playing for the first team.
“I have to use this experience as an incentive and become a better player.”
