Lorik Cana is delighted with his decision to join Sunderland.

"The weather is not exactly the same here as it is in the south of France but that is not the most important thing," said the former Marseilles skipper, who speaks fluent English.

"The more important thing is to feel well and play as well as you can. It's a good atmosphere here. It's a good country to show your passion and that is why I chose Sunderland for my career.

"I am typical midfielder. I am trying to be a leader in the area and I always try to give 300 per cent. I have a strong game and that's why I feel England is good for me because everyone plays strongly and fast and I have this sort of game.

"I had a choice to make because I had played for many years in France and I had to choose where I wanted to continue my career and Sunderland was very interesting so it happened very quickly.

"My first impression was that it is fantastic - fantastic stadium, fantastic training camp and fantastic team-mates and coach."