Fabio Borini has paid tribute to Sunderland's young guns after their efforts at the club's Austrian training camp.
Nine academy prospects joined up with the first team as the Lads undertook a gruelling 10-day training regime.
With three sessions a day ensuring peak fitness is achieved ahead of the opening day of the campaign, Sunderland’s players have been tested to their limits so far in pre-season.
Now back on British soil ahead of two domestic friendlies, against Hartlepool United and Rotherham United, over the next week, Borini admitted Austria was a beneficial trip and reserved a special mention for the youngsters by praising their willingness to learn.
“The lads are enjoying it but especially the young boys because it is a great experience for them to be here with us,” he said.
“All the boys have enjoyed it we have worked hard with triple sessions a day. It’s a good group and we enjoy each other’s company.
“It's good to see no body let themselves down over the summer and that is the key, hopefully now we can continue that hard work,” he added.
“The young lads have settled well. They are really calm and they are always listening to our suggestions so that will only make them better.”
