Mark Atkinson has set his sights on a fast start this season as Liverpool come to town on Saturday.
Sunderland under-18s kick off their Premier League campaign at home to the Reds tomorrow, looking to build on the success of last season which saw them finish seventh.
But with a new intake of scholars, Atkinson is mindful of the hurdles his side will have to overcome if they frustrate Liverpool and get their campaign off to a strong start.
“It is difficult to know where we are in terms of how the team is shaping up because everything is so new,” he said.
“That will be the same for Liverpool, but when you play against a club who will have quality players it’s always a good marker to see where we are at.
“We started the season quite slowly last year so that’s something we want to change this year.
“I’ve been impressed with the second years because they have stepped up to the plate,” he continued.
“There is more onus on them this year to lead the group. The first-year scholars have been around the building for a few years at different age levels, but they are only just getting used to the demands of the full-time training.
“That’s understandable because it does take time for them to settle into their routine. The first years have probably found it a little tough, but I’ve been impressed with how they’ve applied themselves.
“They have gone about their business well and I suppose it’s always going to be difficult in these opening few weeks, so we can’t really judge them.
“We have to leave them and let them find their own way between now and Christmas.
“The first part of the season is very much a transitional phase because they are getting used to the full-time demands while being away from home.”
