Leon Dajaku believes the experiences he faced during a first season in England will allow him to thrive during the 2022-23 season.
Still just 21 years of age, the former Bayern Munich and Union Berlin forward moved to Wearside on a permanent basis earlier this summer, signing a two-year contract.
Dajaku made 28 senior appearances for the Black Cats last campaign, as the club secured promotion to the Sky Bet Championship following a Wembley Stadium victory in May.
And after returning to the Academy of Light for pre-season, the German has reflected on the challenges he faced in year one and explained why it will fuel the impact he can make during the upcoming campaign.
“I’m very happy to be back and I’m excited about the new season, especially competing and proving myself in a new league,” said Dajaku.
“Last season was sometimes challenging for me, as I had to adapt to a new country and a new style of football.”
He continued: “I really enjoyed being a part of Sunderland and I had some good moments on the pitch, but I was unwell twice and I felt that impacted my progress.
"I was then out of the team because my team-mates were performing very well, but that’s football and the most important thing was achieving promotion.
“It was an amazing day at Wembley Stadium and it made me hungry to enjoy more success here, so I’m feeling good and I’m ready to give one hundred per cent for the team.”
Dajaku joined his team-mates for the start of pre-season training on Wednesday, with Alex Neil and his backroom team putting the club’s players through a range of tests and sessions.
Not easy work by any means, but the 21-year-old is relishing every moment and can’t wait to prove himself in the Sky Bet Championship.
“Pre-season hasn’t been easy so far, but it is important to work hard and that process is rewarding because you feel yourself getting fitter and stronger.
“We also have a great atmosphere in the group because of what we have achieved together – we feel like a family which makes it a fun experience.
“We are now just one division below the Premier League and I’m looking forward to that challenge, as there are many big clubs in the league with some very talented players.”