Josh Maja stands by his decision to quit Sunderland and England for Bordeaux.

He played for Crystal Palace and Fulham's youth teams before joining north east club Sunderland on a two-year scholarship and signing a professional contract in 2016.

The striker, 20, has now quit England for France confident the move will best serve his career.

"Obviously it's one of the top five leagues in the world," Maja said of the French league. "If I do half of what I did for Sunderland, I think people will take notice."

He encourages other English players to take the same gamble.

"There's a lot of English talent out there and they're not being seen because everyone's staying in the Premier League for too long; they're maybe not getting that opportunity," said Maja to the Daily Mail.

"I think for young players, going abroad is a good opportunity. I've got four-and-a-half years here, all that time to settle in and develop and improve as a player. I'm pleased to be here."