Jack Ross: Will Grigg is 'stronger and fresher' | OneFootball

Having joined Sunderland in a League One record £4m deal on deadline day last season, the expectations for Will Grigg could not have been higher.

Grigg has a reputation as one of League One’s best, having previously earned promotion with Brentford, Milton Keynes Dons, and Wigan.

However, the 28-year-old couldn’t shake off an ankle injury and was restricted to just five goals in 22 competitive appearances for the Black Cats as Sunderland fell short in the promotion play-off final.

Now, manager Jack Ross claims that Grigg is fully-fit and ready to go for the upcoming campaign.

“I think he has looked more settled even in this short pre-season period,” Ross said.

“Joining a club mid-season is more challenging than at the beginning of the season. He feels more settled on and off the pitch.

“He has looked stronger and fresher than last season so will hopefully benefit from that as well this season.”

Sunderland will take on Benfica ‘B’ in their second pre-season match this Thursday.