Wright keen to extend his spell with Cats after loan
promotion and is preparing for that.
“That was what I wanted, and that's the aim.”
Parkinson made no secret of the fact that Wright was his top defensive target as he sought reinforcements for his new-look back three.
That feeling of being wanted ultimately proved a key driving force in the 27-year-old’s decision-making. “That was a big reason why I came here,” added the defender.
“I had a few conversations with the manager and I know what he's about, what teams he has built before and I've played against him.
“To feel wanted was a big part of my decision, and to feel wanted by a club like this - it was a no-brainer to come here and play my football.”
Wright has penned a six-month loan agreement at the Stadium of Light but, with his contract up in the summer, there is hope on both sides that the deal may become permanent at the end of the current campaign. For the former Preston North End man, that would be an ideal scenario - as he bids to be part of the ‘really good’ atmosphere building at the Academy of Light.
“Yeah,” said Wright, when quizzed on whether he would like to remain on Wearside beyond this season. “I've come here to be part of a successful group and I think there's something really good happening here. I'm enjoying myself and I want to get back to my best, and to do that I need to be winning games of football and making sure this team is successful. I'll just take it from there.”
The early signs are positive, however, with Wright slotting seamlessly into a Sunderland side that have now extended their unbeaten run to nine games.
On and off the field, the defender has quickly settled - and he has thanked his new teammates for his role in the quick transition.
“It's not been difficult, to be honest,” he said.
“Everyone has been spot on in helping me settle and getting to terms with what the gaffer wants and what the lads are all about.
“The standard day in, day out has been set by the lads and it's good to come straight into that and enjoy it. For me, it's just picking up on a few things and just playing how I play and helping the team however I can.
“I feel like I've played with them longer than I have given how easy I've fitted in. From the moment I've walked in the door I wanted to pick up the speed with everything,” he continued. “I just felt at home, going out there and playing with the lads.”