Antoine Semenyo discusses his selection battle and what he has learned at Sunderland so far

Semenyo spent the first half of last season on loan at League Two side Newport County, and was identified by Phil Parkinson as his key attacking target ahead of the January window.

Sunderland had to be patient in their pursuit of the 20-year-old, as Bristol City looked for an attacking signing of their own before sanctioning the loan deal.

Parkinson saw Semenyo as a player who could bring ‘pace and power’ to a squad he admitted was a little lacking.

However, regular football has been hard to come by, with Lynden Gooch and Chris Maguire in outstanding form since the turn of the year.

Semenyo has been limited to six appearances from the bench, but is pushing for a full debut with his side’s form faltering just a touch at the crucial stage of the campaign.

The forward says he is relishing the challenge.

“I am loving it here,” he told the matchday programme ahead of the 2-2 draw with Gillingham.

“I am enjoying it and my team-mates have made me feel comfortable here.

“I am far away from my family, but these guys are slowly becoming like my family.

“I think the first thing I noticed when I got here was the quality difference between League One and League Two.

“I need to be sharper and I know I need to be doing much more off the ball, working much harder in training to improve and get into the starting XI.

“I know that my responsibility has been more about impacting the game from the bench, but I am really trying my best to give the manager a selection headache,” he added.

“The lads have been playing really well and winning games, so it is understandable that the manager hasn't wanted to tinker with the team too much.

“He wants me to come on and affect the game with my energy and I'm more than happy to contribute in any way I can.”

Parkinson has regularly praised Semenyo for his attitude on the training pitch and how he has adapted to life on Wearside.

Semenyo is hoping for an increased role in the coming weeks, but feels he is making improvements to his game regardless.

“On the pitch there are little things that the coaches have done to help me improve my game already,” he said.

“Traditionally, I am used to getting in behind the full-backs, but now I am learning to come to the ball so I can get more involved.

“The gaffer wants me to express myself more when I get the ball which is great for me.

“The coaches have been fantastic with me since I came to the club.

“They are always talking to me and offering guidance on where I can improve.

“I have really enjoyed my time with them, and I think I am coming along nicely under their guidance.”