Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has admitted that he has "learned a lot" from midfielder Lee Cattermole during his tenure with the Black Cats.
The Uruguayan revived the 26-year-old's career at the Stadium of Light last season after the midfielder was cast aside by former boss Paolo Di Canio, while he was also close to a move to Stoke City in January.
However, Poyet feels that Cattermole has come to play a vital role in his side, and revealed that he takes great value in his opinion on the game.
He told the club's official website: "Lee wants to learn, wants to see something different. Of course, we come from two totally different countries and ways of understanding football, he but he has something we always want in terms of that desire and willingness.
"We wanted Lee's position to have a special role in the game, so he had to learn the tactical side we wanted. He was very open-minded and got it; he is always open to listening and interchanging opinions.
"I'm not afraid to say I have learned a lot from him. There have been moments where he has made a comment or asked a question and he makes you think 'here is a point'."
Cattermole will return from suspension for his side's clash against Leicester City later today.
Simon Sinclair
