Sunderland striker Connor Wickham insists he's no "Playboy".

Wickham has played down Paolo Di Canio's description of him as a 'Playboy model' and hopes to impress the Sunderland boss in pre-season.

"I don't know (what to make of it)," he said. "I just saw it. It is just down to me to take on what I see in the papers.

"I don't really read the papers anyway but I am fine, I will get my head down, keep working and show him what I can do when I get back.

"Our relationship is fine. He has had words on the training pitch and helped me along.

"He said he will help me improve as a player so for me there is nothing but positive vibes from him.

"I can't wait to get back to Sunderland and just work hard again.

"I have played the two games that I have been fit for and come on for the other halves.

"I feel strong, I feel confident in the manager and that I will get a chance. Hopefully if I do get a chance, I will take it."