Benji Kimpioka has thanked senior members of Sunderland’s first-team squad for allowing him to settle into the mix so easily.
The Swedish youth international marked his first start for the senior squad last Tuesday with a goal inside two minutes.
Kimpioka, 18, headed home Aiden McGeady’s cross from the left to give the Lads the advantage over Carlisle United in the Checkatrade Trophy while opening his Sunderland account.
And speaking to safc.com, following the Lads’ 3-1 win over the Cumbrians, Kimpioka admitted it has been so easy to settle into the new environment due to the welcoming nature of the senior players.
“It felt very good to get a win and I am very grateful to have got a start,” he said.
“Every day you want to work hard for your opportunities and I got one.
“I thank god, I thank the manager and everyone who has helped me. It is a bonus getting the goal and it just motivates me to get more.
“I have got to be patient and hopefully if I get more I will score them.”
He continued: “Most of the group are like family, we have some great characters such as Max Power.
“He has come on loan, but he has helped the young players, I am grateful that they are so helpful.
“With the young players playing, I am happy. I live with one of them, so we share happy memories.”
