Dick Advocaat is adamant that controversial new signing Yann M’Vila can make an impact in the Sunderland midfield this season.

The Frenchman recently joined on a season-long loan from Russian club Rubin Kazan but having been registered too late to face Leicester on Saturday, made an eventful start to life on Wearside by being sent off for a headbutt in an under-21 fixture against Norwich.

Before that M’Vila had shown a number of nice touches but the incident seemed to epitomise a career that has been plagued by moments of madness.

However, there is no doubt on his day he can be an excellent player and if Advocaat can keep him calm, the 25-year-old’s ability on the ball and tenacity in the tackle could make him one of the signings of the season.

Ironically he is now set to make his debut against the Norwich first team on Saturday, a game the Black Cats have been installed as 2.50 favourites to win with both the Canaries and the draw priced at 3.10.

The Dutchman has struggled to attract quality signings to the Stadium of Light this summer and having been beaten 4-2 by Leicester on the opening day, Sunderland are being tipped for another relegation battle.

The Black Cats are currently 2.10 for the drop but in M’Vila, Advocaat believes he has someone who can give his side the quality they have missed in recent years.

“He is a controlling player rather than box to box,” said the head coach. “He is more a passer of the ball, picks a great pass and a quick pass. (He) does well with that.

“He is a quick thinker. He will make a big difference to the team.”