Jack Ross has told Luke O’Nien he should take ‘pride’ in the improvements he has made over the last 12 months.
The 24-year-old played a starring role in Sunderland’s 2-1 win over MK Dons on Saturday, netting what proved to be a first-half match-winner as he lobbed the on rushing ‘keeper.
Playing in the number 10 role that’s slowly become a regular occurrence, O’Nien has blossomed after impressing at right-back throughout last season.
Having made 74 appearances for the Black Cats since joining from Wycombe Wanderers last summer, the former Watford youth player has earned with place on merit after hours upon hours of hard work and dedication.
Speaking about O’Nien’s improvements, Ross hailed the work put in by Sunderland’s young player of the season last term and admitted his attitude and application means he could play anywhere on the pitch.
“We take pride in his improvement,” he said
“We had a chat on Friday about taking a step back and seeing how much he has developed in the last year. We don’t often do that, not only in football but in life.
“Where was he a year ago and how did he feel in himself? His improvement has been brilliant.
“We have to work hard here to get praise and we have worked hard with him to help him learn the game and how the staff have worked with him.
“We are really pleased with him, he’s in a good place right now and could probably play in any position on the park,” he continued.
“Luke came from a lower-league club and it’s great to have people who have had to adjust and develop.
“He started at Watford, so he’s been at a big club and had to find his way back.”
