Sunderland midfielder Zenden ready for first-team place

Zenden has made 16 appearances this season

Sunderland midfielder Boudewijn Zenden says he is ready to force his way into the first XI after a spell out of the side at the Stadium of Light.

The 34-year-old hopes to be involved at Old Trafford against Manchester United on Boxing Day following a string of cameo roles for Steve Bruce's side.

"Why not today? Why not yesterday? I'm always up for it," the ex-Netherlands international told BBC Newcastle.

"I know what I can bring, and I'm sure that I am capable of helping the team."

The Wearsiders' recent form of one defeat in eight games, which includes a 3-0 win at Chelsea, has propelled the club into the top six in the Premier League.

However Zenden remains guarded as to the level of progress made ahead of Sunday's trip to Old Trafford.

""There's still a long way to go, there's a big transition between being dictated to and starting to dictate games," Zenden added.

"It's an area where we can now still gain a lot of territory.

"We might be in a situation where we have to be confident enough to dictate games.

"We need to get hold of the ball and try to dominate games."

Much-travelled Zenden joined Sunderland following his release by Marseille in October 2009 and has since made 37 appearances, scoring twice.