David Vaughan has said that he hopes to have "turned a corner" as he battles a long-standing groin problem.

The Sunderland midfielder managed just six starts for the Black Cats last season, having struggled to manage the injury.

The 30-year-old told the Sunderland Echo: "It was an issue all season really, and probably last season a bit as well.

"It's something that I've got to work on and keep paying attention to in the gym. Hopefully, though, I've turned a corner and it won't be too much of an issue next season.

"I think you reach your best form when you're playing consistently, and that has been something of a struggle for me at times. Next season though, fingers crossed, I'll be injury-free and be able to make more of a contribution."

Vaughan managed a total of 24 appearances for Sunderland in the 2012-2013 season in all competitions.