The unseen work that has seen Elliot Embleton catch the eye behind the scenes at Sunderland

The young attacking midfielder has missed much of pre-season having picked up a knock at Gateshead in the Black Cats’ first friendly of the summer – but has been continuing to make a mark behind the scenes at the Academy of Light.

And while it is fellow youngsters Dan Neil and Jack Diamond who have caught the eye during games, the unseen work done by Embleton has Power impressed.

“You come off the training ground sometimes and you go ‘wow’,” he said, speaking to the #SAFCUnfiltered Podcast.

"Elliot is that age sometimes now where he knows that he needs to stay fit. I know it must be tough for him because last season he was brilliant in pre-season and then he did his hamstring away at Sheffield United in the cup, which was unfortunate.

“But he’s someone who sees that pass that other people don’t. He’s a nightmare to play against in training because he can go either way and shoot off both feet.

“A lot of the time when you play against players in training and you know what foot they’ll go with, you can get your body shape right. With Embo, he can go either way.”

Power believes that Embleton, Neil and Diamond could all play a key role this season, having backed the trio to make a ‘big impact’ at the Stadium of Light.

"It’s exciting times and there’s nothing better than seeing young lads come through – especially when they come right the way through the academy.

"I know a lot of young lads have moved on in recent years and been sold, but we’ve got three lads who have come into the squad and will be like new signings.

“Hopefully those three lads can make a big impact this season.”

Embleton could return to the fold for the Black Cats’ Carabao Cup tie with Hull City this weekend.

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