I refused more lucrative offers to play for Sunderland, says Ndong

Sunderland’s £13.6 million summer signing Didier Ndong has revealed he turned down more lucrative offers to play in the Premier League.

The 22-year-old Gabon international also denied that he feels any of the pressure that might come from having commanded such a high fee.

Since his deadline day arrival from French Ligue 1 side Lorient in August, Ndong has emerged as an integral part of David Moyes’ midfield as the Black Cats seek to secure Premier League survival.

Sunderland visit fellow strugglers Swansea on Saturday and will look to continue their recent good form, which has seen them win three of their last four matches.

He said:  “I don’t think the money is an issue. I don’t think it adds pressure.”

“It was there, and Sunderland obviously had to pay a price for the transfer, but the most important thing is that I am here now, playing, and enjoying what I do.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

“I am loving being in the Premier League.

“Sunderland were the first club to ask me to move to the Premier League, and that meant a lot to me.

“I got higher offers, but they were not to play in the Premier League, and I really wanted to come here.”