O'Nien has been deployed in midfield by Lee Johnson so far this term and has thrived in the role of being a ball winner due to his energy and dynamism in the centre of the park.

The former Wycombe Wanderers man is also capable at slotting in along the back four at both centre and right back where required due to his ability to stay disciplined.

He regularly slotted in at the heart of the defence last season and offered a got option in that area when the Black Cats picked up their fair share of injuries in that position.

With the versatile player having now committed his long term future to the club, the hope will be that they can get that so far elusive promotion and bring Sky Bet Championship football back to their corner of the North East this season.