Mac-nificent Aiden is loving the game again, says Grayson

AIDEN McGEADY’S stunning strike against Norwich City is proof he has ‘fallen back in love with the game’ - according to Sunderland boss Simon Grayson, writes JAMES HUNTER.

McGeady had grown disillusioned at Everton but was reinvigorated when Grayson took him to Preston on loan last season.

The winger was the first player Grayson wanted to sign when he took over on Wearside.

The Republic of Ireland international cost a bargain £250,000 and showed why that is a steal after scoring one goal and setting up another as Sunderland crushed Norwich 3-1 at Carrow Road.

Asked whether McGeady was a snip, Grayson said: “It is when you think the club tried to buy him five years ago for £9m! He is a player who has huge ability.

“He had fallen out of love with the game before I took him to Preston last year and let him express himself, because his ability is as good as anyone’s.

“You saw glimpses today of what he can do. He has fallen back in love with the game and when I came in he was the first player I wanted to sign.”

Grayson also heaped praise on two more of his signings, Lewis Grabban - who scored Sunderland’s other two goals and strike partner James Vaughan.

He said: “That is what Lewis is capable of doing and he has proved at this level he is a handful for any team.

“He has a good understanding with James Vaughan.”