Sunderland coach Steve Bruce lavished praise on Ahmed Elmohamady and expressed his confidence that his side would be able to hold onto him next season.

The Egyptian wing-back has made a fine impact since joining the English Premier League side from ENPPI on a season-long loan last summer, thanks to his pace and penetration skills down the right flank.

The Black Cats are looking to secure a permanent deal for the 23-year-old, who is also an integral member of Egypt’s squad.

“He’s tied down to us contractually so there’s no one else who can take him off us,” Bruce told the Sunderland Echo.

“And we’re very happy with the way he’s played and to have him on board. I didn’t expect him to make the impact he has because he was still so young when we brought him over.

“But he’s got 22 caps for his country and he’s still only in his early 20s, so you know he’s got to have something.”

Although he has created just one goal so far this season, Elmohamady’s pinpoint crosses cause constant menace to opponents. His displays eased off lately but Bruce still regards him highly.

“Ahmed’s a little raw, but he’ll get a lot sharper with experience and when he comes back next season it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s come on again,” Bruce added.

“Ahmed has come over here to a completely different culture and way of life.

“It’s his first season in the Premier League and although he’s played on the right wing previously, he’s spent far more time in that position than he ever has done before.

“So he’s had a lot to absorb and it’s never a surprise when young players occasionally have a dip in odd games.

“But he is an exciting prospect and he’s got the attributes you need – pace, desire and physique – to succeed in the modern game.

“He’s quick, eager and great in the air and he’s a threat. He’s also got a great attitude – he just wants to play and that’s very refreshing for a manager.”