New Sunderland player Adam Matthews has admitted that he has moved to the Premier League to increase his chances of an international recall with Wales.
The 23-year-old right-back completed a £2m move from Scottish champions Celtic last week, and he is relishing the opportunity to play in a better league.
He told Sky Sports News: "The international thing was a major part of me moving. The league in Scotland isn't great and I think the Welsh manager saw that and hopefully this move will help me improve my chances of getting into the Welsh team because they are doing really well at the minute. But I just needed a new challenge.
"I have been at Celtic for four years and enjoyed every minute of it but I spoke to my agent and it seemed to be a good move for me at this stage. I'm happy to move forward and playing in the English Premier League was a big factor in my decision - Sunderland are a massive club, there is no doubt about it."
The former Cardiff City player has signed a four-year contract.