Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone has admitted that he is excited to play in front of the club's supporters this season.

Mannone left Arsenal to move to the Black Cats during the summer, and the Italian stopper has revealed that he has previously taken note of the desire of the Stadium of Light fans.

The 25-year-old told the Shields Gazette: "I've been here to the Stadium of Light a few times, but only on the bench. I have never played here.

"I was really impressed. It was one of the noisiest grounds, especially last season when Arsenal came here and Sunderland gave us a difficult game and they were pushing us hard.

"I was really impressed at the way the fans got behind their team, and I expect the atmosphere will be just as good this season."

Sunderland begin their Premier League campaign with a home match with Fulham on Saturday.