Patrick van Aanholt signed a new four-year deal at Sunderland AFC on Wednesday but the Dutchman states the hard work starts now.
Van Aanholt has been a revelation following the arrival of manager Sam Allardyce, and despite beginning the season outside the starting XI the defender has since cemented his place in Big Sam’s backline.
Combining blistering attacking displays with resilient defending, the Dutchman’s consistent performances at both ends of the pitch resulted in a recall to the Netherlands fold and had Oranje qualified for Euro 2016 there is real possibility that the Sunderland man would be featuring at the summer's showpiece tournament.
Instead, van Aanholt has a summer to reflect on a satisfying campaign both personally and collectively, but speaking to safc.com he revealed his desire to push on and keep improving.
“I’m very happy to be part of the Sunderland family and I’m very happy to have signed a deal until 2020,” said van Aaanholt. “I think I had a good season and we stayed up so I’m looking forward to the new campaign.
“The club, the stadium and the fans [made me want to spend the next four years here], I like being here, I enjoy playing football for Sunderland and I want to stay here for a very long time.”
He continued: “Two years ago I had no Premier League experience and that’s why I came here, so I think I’ve shown everyone what I’m capable here but now it’s time to develop it.
“Sam Allardyce gave me a chance; I didn’t start the season very well under Dick [Advocaat] but the new boss came in and gave me all the confidence in the world and I paid it back on the pitch.
“He’s worked with me in training and in games but it’s not just him and I’ve been working with all the staff so I’m very happy.”
