Two games in four days provides Sunderland under-23s with an insight into the life of senior football, according to Andy Welsh.
The Black Cats begin their Premier League International Cup campaign tonight as Portuguese club Benfica head to Eppleton Colliery Welfare.
However, the development team will have no time to rest as their gruelling fixture schedule continues on Monday with a trip to Manchester United.
Speaking to safc.com, Welsh admitted he is relishing in the different battles his side will face in the next four day, insisting it will be a great learning curve.
“Last year was a really good experience and this year we are hopeful we can add to that,” he said. “Benfica are very strong, technically very good and quite powerful so it’s going to be a really good test.
“We are looking forward to it because it’s going to be another good opportunity to showcase our talent. We have prepared very well and hopefully we can see what we can do tonight.
“Following the game we will then be in all weekend and the lads will have to turn their attentions straight to Manchester United.
“For their development it’s something that teams have to do in the Premier League as well as in the Football League so we are hoping they will relish that challenge.”
