Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford says his loan spells away were the making of him.

Pickford has been reflecting on how the loan spells away from Sunderland helped shape his career.

“The loan move to Preston North End last season was massive for me and every loan move I have been on has helped me develop," said Pickford to the Sunderland Echo.

“You might be technically good, but going on loan helps your development and your understanding of the game. You become more mature.

“Playing every Saturday at 3pm is massive; there is no better feeling than playing.

“You are not always relying on your parents or your girlfriend.

“It helps you mature. Every game you play, the better you become.

“I went on loan for a reason and that reason was to become Sunderland's number one and to keep the shirt.

“2016 was a great year, making my Premier League debut, then my home debut and staying up and being part of the squad and being in the Sunderland first team."