Dennis Cirkin returned to action as Sunderland took on Nottingham Forest in their first pre-season friendly.
Sunderland jetted off to Spain for their pre-season training camp last week and were put up against Premier League opposition in their opening fixture.
Jack Clarke netted from the penalty spot after great work from Chris Rigg, before Forest equalised in the second half.
Cirkin made his first appearance since November on Friday, having suffered a hamstring injury that limited him to only eight appearances in the Championship.
The left-back made a positive impact in the Black Cats’ first season back in the second division, netting five goals that included a brace against West Brom to help them reach the play-offs.
Cirkin is really ‘looking forward’ to playing with Sunderland star
Cirkin will be eager to stay at full fitness next season and has shared his excitement at playing behind Clarke once again.
Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, the defender said: “We’ve had a lot of meetings already and we feel it’s going to be a good one [season], those relationships are building. A new season always feels like a new start and you can’t dwell too much on the past, it’s about learning and trying to change what you can in the future. It’s been a while since I’ve played competitively, so I’m excited to see what I can do and what I can maybe bring to this team. There’s a lot of different dynamics in the team so that’s exciting and interesting to see how that’s going to go. I’ve had a few good chats with the new head coach as all of us have, and it’s gone well so far.
“I’m hoping I can help the team, goals and assists, and to be honest to just get down that left side again because it’s my favourite thing in the world. It’s nice to link up with Jack [Clarke] again as well, he’s a brilliant player and our connection on the pitch is second to none. I’m looking forward to see him doing his thing again, it’s just exciting.”
Jack Clarke is likely to be replaced by deadline day
Clarke’s future remains in doubt after being linked with the likes of West Ham and Southampton this year, though Sunderland are yet to receive any offers for the winger.
Cirkin and Clarke proved a brilliant duo during the 2022-23 season and the left-back’s return could be really beneficial to Clarke if he stays at the Stadium of Light.
It is very clear that the whole squad are hopeful the 23-year-old will stay at the club and it does seem likely that he will play another Championship fixture for Sunderland, but it would be surprising if he hasn’t left by the time transfer deadline day comes round.
The Black Cats have clearly worked on their transfer policy though and fans will feel positive that they can sign a new attacker to take his spot, though he will have huge boots to fill and a lot of goals to bag if he is to live up to expectations.