AliousDennis Cirkin has played down speculation surrounding his Sunderland future, insisting his priority is regaining full sharpness and contributing on the pitch after marking his return with a first Premier League start for the club against Leeds United. With the defender now inside the final six months of his contract, Cirkin was keen to keep the focus firmly on football rather than negotiations.
The 23-year-old’s appearance at the Stadium of Light represented a significant personal milestone. It was his first competitive outing since May’s play-off final and his long-awaited Premier League debut for Sunderland, completing a remarkable journey that has seen him feature for the club in League One, the Championship and now the top tier of English football.
When asked about his contractual situation, Cirkin made it clear that discussions about his future can wait. Having spent half a year sidelined, his attention is firmly on rebuilding match fitness and momentum. He stressed that simply getting back onto the pitch was the most important step, adding that what happens next will unfold in time.
Despite the disappointment of the result, Cirkin admitted the occasion itself had not yet fully sunk in. He described the experience as unforgettable and a realisation of a lifelong ambition, even if the defeat slightly dulled the moment. In time, he believes it will be a memory he looks back on with pride.
The left-back also reflected on the wider significance of reaching the Premier League with Sunderland, having been part of the club’s rebuild from the lower divisions. He highlighted how special it felt to make his top-flight debut with a team he had represented during far more challenging periods, describing it as a powerful indicator of the progress the club has made.
Cirkin’s long spell out injured forced him to watch from the sidelines as teammates took the next step without him, but he insisted the period was not one he viewed negatively. Instead, he explained that he tried to reframe the setback as an opportunity to grow, learn and emerge stronger. He now believes the experience has sharpened his mentality, pushing him to search for marginal gains and improve day by day.
Despite uncertainty surrounding his contract, Cirkin made no secret of his emotional connection to Sunderland. He spoke warmly about his journey with the club and emphasised his desire to stay fit and provide another option for a squad he believes has shown incredible fight throughout the season. His immediate aim, he said, is simply to add value to a group that has already achieved so much.
Looking further ahead, Cirkin allowed himself to dream big. Asked whether there could be more chapters to write at Sunderland, he boldly referenced the Champions League. Pressed on whether that ambition was realistic, he doubled down, insisting the belief inside the squad is genuine. Given how far the club has come in a short space of time, he feels those aspirations are not unrealistic and are something the group is actively working towards.
With a demanding festive schedule looming, Cirkin acknowledged the challenges ahead but spoke positively about the trust developing within the squad. He believes the team is still learning and adapting, yet the collective belief and unity are strong foundations to build on.
Finally, Cirkin offered an honest assessment of the step up to Premier League football after completing the full 90 minutes. He admitted the intensity caught up with him physically, highlighting how much quicker the game feels, both in movement and decision-making. While he acknowledged a few lapses in concentration and physical sharpness, he is confident that regular minutes will help him adapt fully to the demands of the top flight.
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