Sunderland are set to compete in the Europa League this season.

Former Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has claimed that the Black Cats have “nothing to be fearful of” heading into their debut Europa League campaign.

Regis Le Bris’ side exceeded all expectations last season by securing a spot on the continent with a final day victory over Chelsea, and while it will represent just the second time that Sunderland have made the foray into European football in their history, Bardsley is confident that they can make a positive impact.

Speaking exclusively to The Echo, courtesy of BetGoodwin, he said: “They've got nothing to be fearful of. Obviously, no-one expected them to get there in the first place. It'll be a new challenge for the players that have not experienced it before. But as well, the players that have, the likes of Granit Xhaka, will be instrumental to making sure the young players understand it. They'll learn from it, and it can only benefit their careers.

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“But we all want a decent European run, don't we? And some decent European away days. But listen, it'll be a difficult test for teams coming to the Stadium of Light as well. It's not an easy place to come under the lights. The Sunderland fans should be so excited. I mean, obviously, watching the World Cup at the minute, I just want to focus on club football and get back to seeing the teams that we enjoy watching, and Sunderland competing in Europe will be awesome.”

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