Teenage striker hoping to catch the eye of Sunderland boss David Moyes

The 17-year-old scored the equaliser in the late 2-1 Checkatrade Trophy win over Notts County last week, his second goal in as many games after a match-winning strike against Blackburn Rovers.

Now he is looking to continue working hard on the training pitches at the Academy of Light and catch the eye of Moyes in the process.

“I’m very happy because in training I have been working very hard on my finishing and it’s great to see that it’s paying off in games,” said Maja.

“It’s great to see the rewards in training.

“I want to contribute to the team and it gives you great confidence seeing the hard work you’ve put in is paying off. It was a great win against Notts County for the lads.

“It wasn’t easy but it was nice to come from behind and to contribute with a goal was pleasing. Hopefully my performances in the Under-23s can push me to get a chance in the first-team.”

Maja knows he has a lot of hard work ahead of him, with room for improvement.

He added: “It was great to get my chance at QPR but I know there is still plenty of hard work to do.

“My goals in recent weeks have been pleasing but I know there is still room for improvement. I need to keep scoring and working hard, that’s all I can do.”

Sunderland have been drawn away to Wolves in the knockout stages of the Checkatrade Trophy. The game will take place in the week commencing December 5.