Waghorn fired up for his big chance
Sunderland striker Martyn Waghorn is determined to make the most of his chance to land a first-team place.
Waghorn enjoyed a successful loan stint at Leicester in the Championship last season, but boss Steve Bruce has ruled out another loan for the 20-year-old from South Shields.
Waghorn, who has played a big role in the Black Cats' pre-season games, said: "I don't want to go out on loan.
"I'm going to get my head down and I'm going to do everything I can to stay at Sunderland.
"I want to play for this club and I want to play in the Premiership. I've got a chance to and it's up to me. I'm really going to go for it.
"I had a really good time at Leicester, I enjoyed it, but I'm really happy to be back at Sunderland. I'm just pushing to get into the team and hopefully cement a place in the first team squad this season.
"I've matured loads as a person and a player at Leicester. It was definitely what I needed at that stage of my career. I've learnt so much from playing regularly.
"I move around the pitch a lot better, so the year was vital for me. I was playing regularly and scoring goals but the aim was always to bring that back with me to Sunderland and try and force my way into the team here."
Waghorn could soon have Manchester United's Danny Welbeck as a rival for first-team action, with Bruce seeking to tie down the youngster on loan.
Waghorn said: "It's nice to have a manager in Steve Bruce who is willing to give the youngsters an opportunity. He isn't afraid to throw you in there if he thinks you are good enough.
"We saw that last season. It's nice to know you've got the manager's backing as a young player.
"It's up to me now and I'm going to give it my all at Sunderland, that's for sure.
"It's been a challenge coming back to Sunderland and I've really enjoyed it. I've scored a couple of goals in pre-season against Munster and we've been over in Portugal working hard and I had three good games.
"I'm part of the squad and hopefully I've made a good impression so far."
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Weather for Sunderland
Wednesday 08 February 2012
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