Sunderland's latest signing Lee Burge believes working alongside Jon McLaughlin will help both men raise their game.
Former Coventry City goalkeeper Burge joined the Black Cats last week as backup for Scotland international McLaughlin , taking over the role filled last season by Robbin Ruiter who left the club at the end of the contract this summer.
First choice keeper McLaughlin was in excellent form last season and his consistency means that Burge will have to be patient as he waits for an opportunity, but the 26-year-old says he can learn a lot just from training with the former Hearts, Burton Albion, and Bradford City number one.
"I am really excited to start working with Jon because he is a top-class keeper," said Burge.
"I can learn a lot from him, and I hope we can drive each other to be better as we compete for game time and keep him on his toes."
Burge has spent a week training on Wearside with goalkeeping coach Craig Samson, with young keepers Anthony Patterson and Ahmed Abdelkader, with McLaughlin beginning his pre-season today after being given extra time off following his international commitments over the summer.
Burge said: "I have had a really good first week here.
"The lads have helped me settle in really well, the training has been really good, and the facilities are class. I am just trying to get to grips with everything and how the club works.
"Craig Samson has been great to work with so far.
"He has been putting me through my paces with new drills and exercises and I have really enjoyed the challenge of them.
"We have done a lot of power work with the bands.
"We have focused on cardio, short sharp stuff and a lot of hurdle jumping.
"Of course, we have also spent a lot of time with the ball which is good as I can feel myself getting sharper.
"We have done everything really and I am enjoying it."
Sunderland begin their programme of pre-season friendlies with a trip to South Shields tomorrow night when Black Cats fans are likely to see Burge in action for the first time, with Jack Ross planning to a different XI in each half at Mariners Park.
Burge added: "I am really excited for the game on Thursday and for the fans to see me in action for the first time.
"I just can't wait to get on the pitch."
