Exclusive: Sunderland midfielder hints at January exit as he reveals his future plans

The former Chelsea midfielder has been regularly training with Phil Parkinson’s first team this season, but believes a temporary exit is needed in order to accelerate his development.

Sammut, speaking exclusively to the Echo, also hailed the impact of Parkinson - who has taken a strong interest in the club’s youngsters since his arrival on Wearside.

“He [Parkinson] has given me a little opportunity to train with them and travel, and it’s up to me in under-23 games and training to show him what I can do,” said Sammut.

“It’s really good, even just to see how some of them work.

“You’ve got the likes of Grant Leadbitter who has played in the Premier League. Seeing what he’s like day-to-day and how he acts on and off the pitch, on away trips is brilliant.

“It’s a real eye-opener and a good experience for me.

“To make my football league debut is something I’ve been working towards my whole football career, and hopefully that can happen.”

Sammut isn’t the only member of Elliott Dickman’s under-23 squad who has been given the opportunity to train with the senior side.

Parkinson has regularly attended second string games during his time with the Black Cats, and Sammut believes that should act as a source of motivation.

“It’s really encouraging knowing that he takes an interest in us,” he added

“He’s always got some of the younger boys training during the week and that kind of thing. “He’s always looking at us and it brings a lot of encouragement.”

And while keen to catch Parkinson’s eye, Sammut made no secret of his desire to pursue senior football - whether at the Stadium of Light or further afield.

“Whether or not there is a loan move on the cards, that sort of thing, I just want to try and get senior football.

“I think at the age I’m at I need to be playing at that level and testing myself.

“Hopefully, something like that can happen.

When directly asked by the Echo if he would be interested in a loan move, Sammut replied: “Yeah, of course.”