Sunderland defender Matthew Kilgallon is frustrated by his lack of first-team action with the Black Cats. The 26-year-old has found himself behind fit-again John Mensah and Paraguay international Paulo da Silva in manager Steve Bruce's plans.

Kilgallon told the Sunderland Echo: "If I'm honest, it has been quite tough for me being on the bench, because I've come here from a club where I basically played every game automatically.

"But I understand the situation, when it comes to John Mensah, he's an absolutely top-quality player and you can't blame the manager for wanting to call on a player of his ability and class.

"And then, with Paulo da Silva, well, he's the captain of his country and he's going to the World Cup this summer, so you've got to recognise his quality.

"But I came to Sunderland to play football and prove I can live at Premier League level and I intend to do that.

"It's up to me to show that I deserve a place in the side and I will do. I'll continue to give it everything.

"I've got a three-year contract at the club and I plan to make it a success."