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Sunderland: 'No limits' to what Black Cats can achieve
https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/23597303.sunderland-no-limits-black-cats-can-achieve/
DENNIS Cirkin says there are "no limits" to what Sunderland can achieve and believes everyone associated with the club should be excited about the years ahead.
After signing a new three-year deal, former Tottenham defender Cirkin wants to "reach new heights" on Wearside.
Cirkin helped
Sunderland to an impressive top six finish last season and says there's confidence and excitement around the club as to what the future holds. The
Black Cats have carried momentum from last season into the summer, making three early signings as well as securing new deals for Cirkin and fellow defender Trai Hume.
"There are no limits to what this team can achieve," said the defender.
"If we keep progressing and keep staying positive, there's no limit. We're very ambitious."
Cirkin has established himself as a favourite and key player in his two years at the Stadium of Light and after helping Sunderland to promotion from League One, played 28 times in the Championship last term, despite having his season disrupted by injuries.
The young full-back had to overcome several injury problems and was also forced to miss a period of the season after suffering concussion when scoring at Millwall, one of his five goals last term.
For all he's enjoyed the highs at Sunderland so far, he says he's learnt an awful lot from his own personal setbacks, and now wants to kick on again in the coming campaign.
"Last season there was a lot of ups and downs for me," he told the club website.
"I think there were a lot of good moments but also some setbacks for me, a lot of injuries. Some were out of my control but it really developed me as a player and as a person as well.
"You have to look at both sides, enjoy the highs - the goals I scored - but also the lows as well and learning from them and developing. I'll take that forward.
"It feels like a long time since I joined. It's been some journey so far but hopefully it continues and there are more highs to come."
Cirkin followed in the footsteps of Trai Hume in signing a new deal and says he's delighted to commit his future to the club.
"It's such a good feeling. I'm really delighted and want to kick on in the new season and push on and reach new heights and new levels," he said.
"I think it's obvious that this is one of the best clubs for youngsters at the moment. We showed that last year.
"Throughout the season we had the youngest group of players. It's a good mix. We have good experienced players who help a lot and a great manager, all credit to him. It's just the best place for my development. I'm really enjoying it, it's perfect for me.
"We got into the play-offs last year, which is incredible when you think about it. It's really exciting for everyone around the club and supporters, we should be excited for what's ahead."