Former Ukraine fullback Oleg Luzhny is backing Jeremain Lens for success with Sunderland.

Lens left Dynamo Kiev for Sunderland last week.

Luzhny told Ukrainian media: “With regards to the transfer of Lens, it is obvious that the management of Sunderland has provided a powerful cash offer.

“The new season could see them possess a serious threat to compete in the league standings to have the right to play in the Europa League.

“To implement this task, Dick Advocaat is building a strong side."