Sunderland's coaching staff were impressed with Aaron Kernan's endurance levels during his six day stint with the Premiership outfit.

The recently retired Orchard County ace is due back in Crossmaglen today after completing his part of a novel sporting swap which saw former England and Spurs player David Bentley try his luck at gaelic football.

Joe Kernan told The Irish News that his son was satisfied that he gave a good account of himself at the Stadium of Light.

"I haven't talked to Aaron since Sunday night but he said he won a test over distance covered in training and was happy with that," Joe revealed.

"He has a great engine and keeps himself in good shape.

"He was saying his pace over the first five yards compared to the Sunderland boys was a bit slow. But over the longer distances he was faster and the GPS tests showed that.

"He said he was happy with the skills, kicking and passing and said he learnt a lot of things generally that he thinks he can apply to our own training in Crossmaglen."

The former Young Footballer of the Year went out for dinner with Sunderland captain and Irish defender John O'Shea on Saturday night.

"They were amazed by all the similarities between them as sportsmen, considering one is professional and other isn't," Joe added.

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