Sunderland’s coaching staff are cooking up a recipe for success according to frontman Jermain Defoe.
The Black Cats are currently undertaking a rigorous training programme in Austria in preparation for the new campaign, with the likes of Sam Allardyce and his staff pushing the Lads every step of the way.
An experienced member of the squad, Defoe has relished the workload and believes a stellar pre-season can ensure a successful start to the upcoming Premier League season.
“It’s been hard work but it’s been good,” said last season’s top scorer. “It’s a nice place and quiet so everyone can focus, and the lads have looked forward to coming back, seeing each other again and getting down to the hard work.
“We want to have a good start to the season so it’s important that we put the hard work in now - we are doing three sessions a day which is never easy - but like I said its important and we need to make sure that we’re flying when it comes to the first game of the season.”
He continued: “People say you have to do it like you love it and its hard work, but at the end of the day if you put in the work you get rewarded.
“I did a lot of power work [in the summer] to give me a base for when I came back and my legs feel strong.
“This morning we went on a bike ride before having breakfast together and training – it was a sharp session – and we have a power session this afternoon so we’re getting it all in the tank to prepare for the first game.
“We’ve enjoyed it and the weather is amazing which is always nice, so far it’s been brilliant.”
