**Sunderland defender Luke O’Nien has spoken of his pride at being part of the Black Cats squad representing the club on the European stage.**
O’Nien has been at Sunderland since they were in League One, and spoke of how special the occasion will be.
Ahead of the Sunderland’s trip to face Portuguese second division side Torreense, O’Nien said that, “it will be special for me, but it’s not about me.
“It’s about the club and what we’re trying to build,” he continued.
“So many people have helped us get to where we are today.”
O’Nien is affectionately known as ‘Mr. Sunderland’ given his dedication to the club, having represented Sunderland in three divisions.
Now he has the chance to play in red and white on the continent, and firmly cement his place in Sunderland folklore.
The English defender is by no means a first choice in defence at present for Sunderland, but given the fact that Sunderland are playing a side from outside of the European elite, there is a chance that O’Nien will get an opportunity to enter the pitch.
On top of that, the need for rotation when playing Thursday to Sunday is paramount in order to prevent injuries and fatigue.
Sunderland will [welcome back both Brian Brobbey and Habib Diarra](https://hayters.com/two-returns-and-two-doubts-for-sunderlands-europa-league-clash/) into their match day squad for the trip to Portugal, in what is a real boost for Régis Le Bris.
Dan Ballard remains out, however, with Thomas Meunier also a doubt going forward.