Januzaj learning from experienced Defoe at Sunderland

Adnan Januzaj admits he and Jermain Defoe are forging a unique relationship at Sunderland, after the Belgium international and veteran striker linked up last weekend to superb effect.

The 22-year-old Manchester United loanee had not really caught fire at the Stadium of Light so far this season, but provided two assists for Defoe to add to his burgeoning goal tally for the season as the Black Cats romped to a 4-0 win at Crystal Palace last weekend.

Januzaj faces an uphill struggle to resurrect his Old Trafford career if he returns in the summer, but for the time being at least, he is happy to learn from the experienced Defoe.

He said: “I really like playing with him even though he always asks for the ball.

“He’s an unbelievable striker and you can see that with his goals on Saturday because they weren’t easy chances. He’s someone I can learn a lot from.

“In the last few games we’ve linked really well and I think we have a good relationship with each other. We’re enjoying playing together and hopefully he can score many more goals.

“I wouldn’t say I’d played badly in the games before but obviously [my performance against Palace] got people talking because I got the assists and made a difference.

“It was no doubt a good game for me there, and when there is more confidence in the team it’s easier for me and Jermain to create because we’re playing much better.

“Didier [Ndong] also helps because he brings the midfield a lot closer to us. Everyone got up the pitch really quick on Saturday and I think it showed with the chances we created. It was a real team effort.

“During the last few weeks we’ve felt like we’re playing like more of a team and everyone is really giving their all for each other. We’re helping each other on the pitch and I think it’s really starting to show in our performances and our results.”