Dwight Yorke believes Sunderland's players will be stronger for this season's campaign.
"We have players that have played in the Premier League but only for a year or two," said Yorke. "We don't really have any established Premier League players and they are finding it a bit difficult.
"That's part of the reason I'm here, to bring that calming influence to the team. Hopefully given the chance I can influence the team from out on the pitch.
"What I do know is that I have put myself back in the frame. When Ricky first took over the team was on such a high and everything seemed cosy and there was no need for me to push myself forward.
"I was quite happy to let that happen as much as I still wanted to play. But now we are in a bit of a dilemma.
There's a need for some experience to be brought into the team. It won't take me long to get into the swing of teams because I am training every day."
