Ola Toivonen had no hesitations in joining bottom-placed Sunderland

Ola Toivonen has insisted that he had no qualms in joining a club currently rooted to the bottom of the Premier League.

The Swedish forward joined Sunderland on a season-long loan from Rennes last week and not only does he bring more experience into the Black Cat's litter, but Toivonen also brings the freshest blonde locks to the Stadium of Light since Boudewijn Zenden.

The 43-time Sweden international played under Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat for 15 months at Paris Saint-Germain, and is happy to link up with his old coach in a league he regards highly.

And he had no concerns about the Wearside outfit currently being in 20th place, and being among the favourites for the drop.

"There's nothing for me to hesitate about," Toivonen told BBC Newcastle.

"Dick and other people spoke highly about the club, there are the great facilities and the chance to play in the Premier League - the Premier League speaks for itself."

Toivonen made his bow in English football in last Saturday's 2-2 draw at Aston Villa, and can see signs that things can improve.

"If you look at the type of players we have it's only going to get better," he added.

"(Yann) M'Vila is a quality player, so he's going to get fitter and hasn't played for a long time, (Younes) Kaboul too, and me."

Toivonen will link up with his national side for Euro 2016 qualifiers against Russia and Austria, and thinks the time away from club football will be an advantage for his new team.

"This international break is a good chance for the whole team to get fit."

Sunderland next faces Tottenham Hotspur on 13th September.