Liam Bridcutt could not believe his first start for new club Sunderland came in a massive Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United.
The Scotland international joined the Black Cats from Brighton & Hove Albion late in the transfer window to reunite with Gus Poyet and played a full 90 minutes in a significant 3-0 triumph over Newcastle United at St James' Park.
"If someone tells you you're going to win 3-0 on your debut against Newcastle, you'll take that! I was straight in at the deep end really," said Bridcutt.
"Gus has brought me in here to have a great opportunity to play in the Premier League and it doesn't get any better than that - making your debut in a derby and winning 3-0.
"It was a bit of a shock, but it was a good surprise for me really."
He added: "When you're given an opportunity to come to the Premier League and to a great club like Sunderland, with a manager like Gus, you're not going to turn it down.
"It took a while, but thankfully Brighton have given me a great opportunity to come here and show what I can do.
"But I'm glad it did and I can enjoy playing in the Premier League now."
