Jason Steele has dusted himself down and is ready to go again after seeing a proposed deadline-day move to Derby County break down.
The goalkeeper, who signed for the Black Cats last summer, saw his game time reduced following the arrival of Robbin Ruiter, with Lee Camp’s late January move adding further competition for a starting spot.
Steele turned out for the club’s under-23s on Monday night in a bid to retain match sharpness and gain valuable minutes, and despite not featuring in the squad against Ipswich Town, he was kicking every ball from the stands.
And speaking to safc.com, the goalkeeper gave an honest assessment of his situation while vowing to help his team-mates in any way he can.
“It wasn’t a case of me wanting to leave or the manager wanting me out, it was just that an opportunity arose that suited both parties and was worth looking at.
“It didn’t happen and I’m still here, so all that’s left to do now is keep working hard as I always do.”
He continued: “I’m ready to fight for my place and show what I can do to get back in the team, and I’m prepared to fight for the cause without a doubt.
“I had a conversation with the manager after everything happened and I said I wanted some game time, so I got some minutes under my belt for the under-23s.
“I told him that I’m here to fight for my place and he likes that, so I’ll continue to work hard and get my confidence up, and give it a real push between now and the end of the season.
“It’s important that everyone does their bit whether they are starting or on the bench, and I’d never kick up a fuss and say, ‘I want to leave’.
“I have a responsibility to the club and my team-mates to help in any way I can, and even though I wasn’t involved on Saturday I made sure I went down and saw everyone before the game to wish them luck, especially Lee [Camp] ahead of his debut.
“I’ll continue to do that because the team will always come before anyone’s personal agenda, and that’s the way it should be.”