Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat has told Emanuele Giaccherini that he needs to prove he is worthy of a starting role at the Stadium of Light.

The Italian’s signature was seen as a bit of a coup when he arrived on Wearside from Juventus for £6million in 2013 but after a decent first campaign, has been plagued by a string of ankle injuries.

His fitness problems meant he could muster just 11 appearances last term, leaving the Black Cats to fight against relegation without him.

Giaccherini has reported back for pre-season fully fit and will know that his ability means he could have a huge say on the outcome of his side’s season.

His boss Advocaat has been busy trying to strengthen his squad in recent weeks and is understandably keen to avoid another relegation scrap after guiding the club away from the drop zone following his arrival in March.

The Dutchman admits he is pleased to have such a talented player at his disposal but has warned the 30-year-old that it is about time he started showing his talent.

“It is important that he is fit, the more players we have of his quality, the better it is,” Advocaat told the Chronicle Live. “So he has to show me that he wants to become a regular, like all the others.

“In the end we will see, OK, he is or he isn’t. That’s the good thing in pre-season.”

Sunderland currently find themselves as the 2.75 fourth favourites to be relegated this season with Watford the shortest priced side at 1.75.