“We needed each other” – Transfer to Sunderland happened at just the right time

Italian forward Fabio Borini has played more games for Sunderland than any other club in his career.

He initially joined on loan from Liverpool in the 2013/14 season, before going back to Anfield for a season and then arriving in a permanent transfer.

After months as a free agent, Borini joined Salford City in October.

The 34-year-old has spoken to Gianluca di Marzio about his time at Sunderland.

He explained how much he enjoyed that experience, as he really needed it after his struggles at Anfield.

“At Liverpool I suffered two serious injuries, which made me grow in terms of resilience because I wanted to conquer the world and I couldn’t ”

Speaking of how Sunderland helped his career revival, Borini said: “The club and I met on an ideal footballing path, we needed each other.”

The former Italy international made clear he still has a good relationship with the fanbase.

“The bond is still strong and will continue to be so for a long time. Because my goals were important and the fans remember me fondly.”

The striker is grateful to Sunderland for helping him resurrect his career at a crucial point. He played 93 games for them, finding the back of the net 17 times, including scoring against Newcastle United.

He also scored against Manchester United in the 2014 League Cup semi-final, helping the Black Cats to the final.

The former Chelsea youngster played in a variety of positions during that spell. This helped him earn a move to AC Milan later.