New Sunderland striker Jozy Altidore has said that Paolo Di Canio's drive and enthusiasm will be crucial to his side next season.

Altidore signed a four-year contract at the Stadium of Light earlier this month, fresh from topping the Dutch scoring charts with 38 goals for AZ Alkmaar last season.

The 23-year-old told ESPN FC: "We didn't get the chance to really sit down and have a good conversation until a couple of days ago. When we finally met, we spoke for about 40 minutes. The way we're going to try to play is exciting for me. Obviously how they finished last year wasn't the best and they'll be the first ones to tell you that, but he's looking to change that and play a different style.

"He's very driven. He's very passionate about what he does and I think that's important. When the guy at the head of the ship really has a plan and he believes in it, it's huge. He has a clear plan of what he wants to do with the club and he sticks to it.

"Obviously I spoke to him about how he sees me as a player, and it felt good that the club did their research and they wanted me here. That tells me that if I do what I have to, I'll get my chances on the pitch and then it's up to me to play well enough to keep my spot."

Di Canio has brought seven players to the Stadium of Light so far this summer, including Italy international Emanuele Giaccherini.