Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole has said that he is feeling "great" after coming close to leaving the club last summer.

Cattermole was deemed surplus to requirements by former manager Paolo Di Canio, but the 26-year-old enjoyed an upturn in fortunes following Gus Poyet's appointment as boss.

He told the Northern Echo: "I had a good break. I didn't get that really last year because of the knee injury I ended the season with, so I was in Monday to Friday and the odd Saturday when the others lads were on holiday. I only had four or five days off.

"Then I came back and I wasn't in the picture. I sat tight. A lot went on last year but this time around I feel great.

"I've had a good holiday, time away this time, and I have had a good pre-season under my belt."

Cattermole scored one goal in all competitions last year.