Is Hume ready for Europe?

"There is no doubt Trai Hume can make that step up to European football," believes BBC Sport Northern Ireland journalist Andy Gray.

The full-back, who has played a crucial role in Sunderland's journey from League One to the Premier League since signing an initial deal in January 2022, will be competing in the Europa League next season.

Speaking about the Northern Ireland international on BBC Radio Newcastle, Gray said: "The fact that Trai Hume offers leadership in a young group which doesn't play together all that often, and considering all the chopping and changing they have to do in defence, is pretty impressive.

"He can play anywhere, to be honest. His biggest attribute is how he is able to adapt positionally. He marked Kylian Mbappe [in the international friendly] the other day without issue, which isn't an easy task.

"He reads the game so well. He obviously isn't the tallest or the strongest player, but he always seems to be that split-second ahead to nip in and make a tackle. He really is such a crucial and important player in the Northern Ireland squad."

When asked if Hume is ready to make the step up to Europa League football, Gray replied: "He joined Sunderland when they were down the divisions and he has been on that journey with the club.

"It's clear that any time Sunderland have had to step up, he has been able to make the step up as well. I have no doubt it will be the same case when it comes to European football.

"He has no problems playing week in week out with the engine he has got. He loves playing football. He will run himself into the ground for the club. He can raise his game any time he is asked to."

Listen to the conversation above or listen on BBC Sounds