Tom Flanagan believes Sunderland’s pre-season tour of Portugal, sponsored by UK Asbestos Specialists Limited, has provided the perfect preparation for the new season.
The Black Cats head home on Tuesday after six days in the Algarve which has included daily double sessions and two friendlies against Benfica B and Belenenses.
The Campus Quinta Do Lago does provide Jack Ross’ side with some familiar surroundings, though, as they flew out last summer for a five-day camp.
Speaking to safc.com, Northern Ireland international Flanangan has admitted the trip has provided the perfect chance to bond as a group ahead of the start of the season on August 3.
The defender also believes the decision to return to the same base has offered a continuity in standards.
“The facilities here are just so good and we would be mad not to come,” he said.
“We’ve worked really hard with double sessions; they’ve got a good gym here too.
“The facilities are just so good, and it makes a nice change from the wind and the rain at the AoL.
“There’s a lot of boys now so we’re able to change the team over the two games.
“Maybe there wasn’t much competition for places last season during pre-season whereas now we are way beyond where we were then in terms of players, fitness levels and competition for places.”
He continued: “It’s very relaxed at the minute. We know what we need to do this season, there’s no shying away from that.
“I would’ve liked to have played 90 minutes in both games, but I understand everyone has to get fit.
“The gaffer might have an idea of his team but he’s definitely not picking his team on who he wants to play where, it’s just about making the team as strong as possible with people who need the minutes.
“That’s the way he’s gone about it and each game has been taken very seriously because we’ve had meetings before each game.
“We’re still learning as a team and as players. The results aren’t anything to worry about at this stage of the season.”
