He told the East Anglian Daily Times: "I know it's a big challenge but you've got to aim high.
"I know how much quality there is in the Sunderland squad and I also know that it is only going to get stronger."
He added: "I've had a successful season this time around and as long as I'm continuing to progress, I've got to be happy."
Meanwhile Ipswich have announced that they will welcome Premier League side West Ham to Portman Road for a friendly on 31 July.
Source: BBC Sport