Sunderland boss Simon Grayson says he would have stayed at Preston if he wanted an easy life.
The Black Cats kick off the new season on TV on Friday night when they host Derby County.
But preparations have been far from ideal for Grayson, who only took over five weeks ago.
His side were stuffed 5-0 at home by Celtic last weekend, after which midfielder Darron Gibson was involved in a drunken row with supporters.