The 29-year-old missed the majority of last season after injuring his hamstring before then breaking his leg.

However, the Trinidad & Tobago international is now back to full fitness and will return to pre-season training with his team-mates on Friday.

"I'm relishing the challenge," Edwards told the Sunderland Echo. "It will be like my first year in the Premier League.

"Last year was a start-stop situation with the injuries. But I'll come back fully fit and hopefully I'll play my part, pushing for a starting spot.

"There will be a lot of competition for places but hopefully I'll keep myself in the picture."