The Republic of Ireland midfielder's presence has been a breath of fresh air at S6 this season and he has fitted in well.
The star also got off the mark, scoring wise on Tuesday night with a goal in the 2-1 defeat at Watford - although he has not yet hinted whether he wants to stay on a temporary basis or on a long-term deal.
He told Sunderland's website: "I feel I'm getting stronger all the time and starting to stamp my influence on games.
"If Wednesday ask me to stay and Sunderland allow it then I'd like to stay because I've enjoyed it here."
Meanwhile Mansfield Town have extended Sean McAllister's loan spell at Field Mill by another month.
In other news, former Owl Darko Kovacevic scored Olympiakos' winner at Werder Bremen in the Champions League last night - the Greek team beat the Germans 3-1.