Thursday 18 September 2014 12:21, UK
Sebastian Coates is reluctant to speculate on the chances of his loan at Sunderland being made into a permanent move.
The Uruguay international defender is to spend the 2014/15 campaign at the Stadium of Light after completing a season-long switch from Liverpool.
He has moved on in search of regular game time, with the likes of Martin Skrtel, Dejan Lovren, Mamadou Sakho, Daniel Agger and Kolo Toure blocking his path at Anfield.
It has already been suggested that the 23-year-old may be tempted to remain on Wearside next summer, rather than enter the final year of his contract on Merseyside.
During the transfer window, I spoke with Gus (Poyet) and he told me that he had an interest to bring me to Sunderland. It’s a good opportunity for me to improve in the Premier League.
Coates is, however, eager to keep his focus locked on the present, with it important for him to make the most of his time at Sunderland before thinking about the future.
Pressed on the likelihood of him staying on, the South American told the Echo: “I don’t know.
“I’m focused on playing some games this year and improve in the Premier League. I want to show why I am here.
“Maybe I expected it to be a learning experience (at Liverpool). It’s hard because it’s a great club and there was a big squad, with a few defenders.
“For me, it was good because you learn every day. But the manager can only choose two guys to play.
“I decided to come here to get the chance to play so, for me, it will be great to play some games.”
Coates admits he sought the advice of Liverpool team-mate Fabio Borini before agreeing a move to Sunderland, with the Italian forward speaking highly of the club despite turning down the chance to return to the North East after shining on loan last season.
“I talked with Fabio,” added Coates.
“He said that it’s a great club, the training ground is amazing and he told me about the city and the supporters. It was good for me to hear that from him.
“During the transfer window, I spoke with Gus (Poyet) and he told me that he had an interest to bring me to Sunderland.
“It’s a good opportunity for me to improve in the Premier League. I will try to do the best I can and help the team.”
