Phil Bardsley signed from Manchester United in January 2008

Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley is enjoying the challenge of working under manager Roy Keane and is happy to be part of an developing team.

"There's always guidance and advice," he said. "The manager has been there and got the T-shirt.

"When I signed I was looking forward to working with him and I'm sure he'll get the best out of me as he did at United.

"There's no better person to give me advice. He can only help me in the future," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

Interview: Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley

He added: "You come here to improve and we look to build and become better players."

The people are genuine around here and I'm enjoying my time with Sunderland Phil Bardsley

Bardsley was born and bred in Eccles near Manchester but is happy with his new surroundings on Wearside and is impressed with the support of the Sunderland fans.

"The fans are fantastic," said Bardsley. "They come in their thousands, watch their team far and wide and deserve to be watching the best football.

"It's nice to be here. The people are genuine around here and I'm enjoying my time with Sunderland. Long may it continue."