Ricky Alvarez determined to prove himself at Sunderland

Sunderland midfielder Ricky Alvarez is determined to prove his worth in the Premier League to repay the faith shown in him by manager Gus Poyet.

The Argentine has made just five appearances for the Black Cats this season following his loan move from Inter Milan as injuries have limited his time on the pitch.

However, Alvarez has stepped up his recovery in the past two weeks and could make his first start since September against West Ham United on Saturday.

He told the club's official website: "As a player you like to hear that you have got the trust of your head coach, and Gus is one of the reasons why I'm actually here because he trusted in me and my ability.

"Now what I'm looking to do is return the faith that he and my teammates have placed in me.

"Without a doubt I'm now coming back to my peak physical condition and I'm also improving in footballing terms, so I'm really doing everything I can so that when I get out onto the pitch I can do the best I can."

Sunderland are 14th in the Premier League ahead of their match against the Hammers.