Sunderland's utility man Luke O'Nien feels he is now seen primarily as a centre-back - and he is not afraid of increased competition in that role next season. The 28-year-old is about to embark on his sixth season with the Black Cats, and he has played in virtually every outfield position at various times during his time at the club.
He started out in midfield but more recently has played in defence, and for much of last season he operated at centre-back Sunderland's central defensive area is in a period of transition with Dan Ballard and Aji Alese arriving last summer, Jenson Seelt and Nectarios Triantis joining during the current transfer window, while Bailey Wright left last month and Danny Batth has also been linked with a move.
But O'Nien still has an important role to play and he believes the extra competition will raise the bar. He said: "Do you call me a centre-half now?
