O’Nien in winning mentality as Cats head into new season

LUKE O’Nien is feeling positive heading into the new season, after a solid pre-season at Sunderland.

The Black Cats will host Hull City on Saturday in the first round of the Carabao Cup in what will be their first competitive fixture for almost six months.

Pre-season has been unusual this summer, with restrictions in place due to Covid-19 limiting what Sunderland could do. As such, Phil Parkinson’s side managed to book in just three friendlies over seven days, culminating in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Harrogate Town.

And with victories also coming against Gateshead and Carlisle United, O’Nien is enthused about their 100% winning record.

“Good habits are important, just getting that winning mentality,” he said.

“It’s all about habits; defenders keeping clean sheets and our strikers scoring.

“I think we’re very prepared. “We’ve had a good amount of time together, the management team have looked after us. We’ve been worked hard, we’re a fit team and I feel like it’s coming together.

“We’re in a really good place, we’ve just got to keep building.”

While the priority for Sunderland this season will once again be the league, and gaining promotion back to the Championship, they first start their campaign with two cup games. Hull’s visit precedes Aston Villa’s under-21s visiting in the EFL Trophy.

“Hull coming down from the Championship, they’re going to be a good team,” he said.

“It’s a good start to the season and a good benchmark for us.”