Michael Dawson said pre-season was always about hard work - and that's certainly the case in the heat in Hong Kong.

Temperatures soared as the sun broke through the morning cloud for Tuesday morning’s session – the players have never been so pleased to see ice baths at the end of training!

“We were ready for the heat with the weather we have had in England,” said Michael at a pre-Sunderland press conference between sessions.

“We arrived yesterday (Monday), we trained, got through a little bit of the jetlag, had a good sleep and then tried again this morning, which was hot.

“But pre-season is all about getting fit and that’s what the lads are doing.

“We’re all working hard and come the first match of the new season (Palace away, August 18), I’m sure we will be flying.”

Sunderland are first up for us in the Barclays Asia Trophy at the impressive Hong Kong Stadium on Wednesday – 6pm kick-off local time, 11am UK.

We will then take on Manchester City or South China FC on Saturday.

“It will be interesting to play an English team in pre-season,” added the skipper. “I’m sure it will be good test and the atmosphere will fantastic."