Sunderland’s first pre-season fixture will take place on Wednesday evening against Hartlepool United, and Patrick van Aanholt simply can't wait.
The Dutchman linked up with his team-mates during their Austrian training camp after being granted an extended leave after representing the Netherlands in June, but he’s raring to go and keen to build on his fitness as the new Premier League campaign ripples on the horizon.
Hartlepool, meanwhile, will be out to impress following a routine win in their opening pre-season encounter on Saturday, and van Aanholt admits it won’t be easy against a local side battling for local pride.
“It’s close so the fans can travel to see us play for the first time this season which is great because they love to come and support us.
“It’s our first game of the season so we will go there, work hard and show the fans our appreciation.”
He continued: “Hartlepool won’t back down and they will be up for the game, but we just have to go there and be professional – the important thing is our fitness and we hope to build on it.
“Pre-season is all about working hard and the more games we play the fitter we will get because matches allow you to test yourself, so we’re looking forward to it and the start of the season.”
