Sunderland assistant manager Eric Black has welcomed the return to full fitness of defender Michael Turner.
Turner had been sidelined with a knee problem and made 16 appearances last season but is now back to full fitness.
He returned at the Stadium of Light as Sunderland claimed a home draw against West Bromwich Albion and Black says the big centre-back's graft has served him well.
"I thought Michael did very well under the circumstances," Black revealed to safc.com.
Having been out for so long and bearing in mind Michael's size, it can take him a little bit of time to get over things.
"He's been unbelievably diligent in the gym, doing everything that's been asked of him.
"Michael deserves his place in the team and it was great to see him back. He brings a strong mentality and toughness to our back four."