James Talbot

James Talbot has revealed he is hoping to prove himself during pre-season as he looks to compete for a place in Sunderland’s development team.

The stopper completed his two-year scholarship last term and is already excited ahead of his first full campaign in the under-21’s squad.

Besides being involved in Andy Welsh’s young Black Cats side, Talbot has trained with the first team and has also experienced a matchday environment at senior level with Sunderland, as he was part of the squad that travelled to Arsenal in the third round of the FA Cup.

Speaking to safc.com Talbot revealed he is targeting a good pre-season and is hopeful the development team can emulate last season’s success.

“It’s brilliant to be back in the routine especially after a six-week break but now it's all about getting back to the hard work,” he said.

“Hopefully I get the chance to play games and show people what I can do. Pre-season is a good chance to do that so if I work hard that will set me up for the season coming.”

He continued: “Last season the lads did really, really well so to live up to that this year will be tough, but it's a younger squad and it’s about bringing it together and getting a good team spirit and just seeing how far we can go.”