Sunderland prospect Elliot Embleton is keen to prove his worth to the Black Cats this season after his loan spell with Grimsby Town, as reported by the Northern Echo.

The 20-year-old went out on loan at Blundell Park for the season and got lots of first team action, something he now feels can help him kick on and become a top player for his parent club.

“I played 30 games at Grimsby last season and it's men's football, it's in the league and it prepares you for coming back to Sunderland, then pushing on for the new season," he revealed.

“I want to be playing at my age and there is a little bit of pressure there but I'm just enjoying playing football and it's what you've got to do."

Embleton pointed to England internationals Jordan Pickford and Jordan Henderson as examples of local Sunderland players going on to further success.

“I've seen players like Pickford and Henderson come through and gone on to bigger things. The fans love the local lads. George Honeyman is captain and they seem to love it.”

Embleton has already represented his country and Under 20 level and hopes that his experience in the men's game can help him impress Jack Ross going into the new campaign.

“I came back this summer wanting to show the manager exactly what I can do and so far I think I've done that. The season starts next week so hopefully, I've done enough."

He penned a new deal earlier in the summer, committing the next two years to the Sunderland cause after asking for assurances he'll be involved in the first team setup.

The Verdict

His emergence could be a really exciting factor in the Black Cats season, but they must be prepared to be patient. Doing well in a side struggling in League Two is one thing, but impressing in front of 30,000 expectant fans is another entirely.

Having met Embleton, I can see he's just a down-to-earth lad with a real focus and determination. He's certainly level-headed and impressed at Grimsby not just on the field, but with his attitude off it.

There is an element of excitement whenever a local lad breaks through, but to put too much expectation on their shoulders too early can be a fallacy. They must be ready to give him time and space to develop and grow.