Elliott Dickman has been impressed by what he’s seen so far from Sunderland’s under-23s this pre-season.
- Check out the best social media clips from day two in Austria
- Duncan Watmore takes part in this week's big interview
- Recap the major talking points from Simon Grayson's first press conference
The youngsters are currently undergoing a strenuous training camp in Austria, working in conjunction with Simon Grayson and his first team ahead of the 2017-18 campaign.
Progression has formed a key part of the week away with a number of the under-23s stepping up to train alongside their senior counterparts, as a number of under-18s also take their next steps up the ladder.
And speaking to safc.com, Dickman paid tribute to the cohesion, progression and work ethic being displayed by players from across the age categories.
“It’s fantastic to be here with the first team and the facilities are great,” said under-23 boss.
“The players have had a tough few days with a lot of running, but the point of coming here is to get ready for what’s ahead and make sure we’re prepared for the season.”
He continued: “We’ve had several lads go and train with the first team which is great for them as it’s given them some exposure to the new manager and his staff.
“They’ve been pleased with the way our players have coped and they’re all very approachable, so that’s pleasing and our players have to make sure they keep doing the basics but keep doing them very well.
“Likewise, there’s some lads who have stepped up to our group from the under-18s and speaking to the lads they’ve said this pre-season is tougher than last year which shows we’re pushing them.
“You would expect that progression in any young player’s career path but the biggest thing they’ve shown me in the last few days is a real desire and a good work ethic.”
Dickman also revealed that Sam Brotherton, Elliot Embleton and Joel Asoro will return to the Academy of Light later this week.
“They’ve had a bit of a rest now because they’d had a busy summer, but they have all had three great – but very different – experiences.
“Elliot went away with England and played a lot of football while winning a tournament which is great for his development, and Joel has been away with Sweden under-21s.”
He added: “Sam didn’t get any minutes at all but to be away with the New Zealand senior side for the Confederations Cup in Russia is unbelievable.
“They’ll be back in on Wednesday for fitness testing with some of the staff who are still at the academy, and then they’ll start their fitness programmes.”