Sunderland have made the Belgian international their first summer signing
Thomas Meunier says he will bring fighting spirit, versatility and technical quality to Sunderland's squad after becoming the club's first summer signing.
Meunier has signed a two-year deal on Wearside following his departure from Ligue 1 club Lille. The 34-year-old will bring valuable experience of top-tier and European competition to Régis Le Bris's squad, and says he is capable of performing in a number of different roles.
Asked what fans can expect from him, Meunier told safc.com: "They will see I'm quite simple, I have a good technique because I was a striker until I was 23... so put me as the nine if you need! I've played almost every position on the pitch apart from goalkeeper and six so I'm quite polyvalent and always play for the collective. I just give my everything and that's how people will recognise me, I never stop running and I always fight.
"I think I will match the competition because you need this fighting spirit in the Premier League. I think the fans will discover a right back who is also able to do other things."
Meunier said he was excited to experience the atmosphere at the Stadium of Light and that the passion of the fans was a key reason why he chose the club.
"I've watched Sunderland 'Til I Die so I know about the atmosphere,” he said.
"I know exactly what I will get, people are living for football. I think with Borussia Dortmund it's a bit the same, an industrial city where everyone works the week and the weekend they are expecting to be together in the stadium. They all want to be there and to share the moments with the players. This is the type of football that comes from my family as well, we are all into football and that's what I'm looking for - if I go to a club with no supporters I'm in the wrong place."
Asked for his message to supporters, Meunier said: "Trust the team, trust the process. Trust me, I made the choice to come to Sunderland because I really want to be here. Keep supporting me and the team, the city, and all together let's try to do something really wonderful and unforgettable."
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