Nosworthy joined Sunderland in 2005

Sunderland defender Nyron Nosworthy says he will play anywhere across the back four in order to cement a place in Steve Bruce's side.

The 29-year-old was man of the match playing at right-back in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Portsmouth in the absence of Phil Bardsley.

He said: "Competition is good, Phil's my mate and a solid, stern defender.

"You just have to take every chance you get and the main thing is to enjoy it, and hopefully play well."

Nosworthy moved to the Stadium of Light in 2005, and started his Sunderland career as a full back, before former boss Roy Keane moved him inside to the centre of defence.

The former Gillingham man has gone on to become a fans' favourite on Wearside, and signed a new three-year contract in October.

He says that returning to right-back against Portsmouth was initially a bit of a culture shock.

"I've had to play there because of suspensions and injuries, and it does seem strange reverting to full back again," he told BBC Newcastle

"I knew it was going to be a different sort of game in terms of running, so I had to prepare myself, and make sure I had my oxygen mask!

"But our training is intense, and working hard there has paid off because I can just go back to that position and put in a performance."

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