Fabio Borini has claimed that he is learning from attempting to avoid relegation with Sunderland this season.
The 22-year-old, who is on loan at the club from Liverpool, believes that he is gaining valuable experience from being involved in a struggling side after largely enjoying success in the early stages of his career.
"I've always fought for a European place or titles and never been involved in a relegation fight," Borini told reporters.
"It's not easy and a totally different tension.
"But you learn so much in the hard times, it is a good experience."
Sunderland manager Gus Poyet suggested earlier this week that he would be prepared to sign Borini on a permanent basis.