Reports have linked the 25-year-old with a move away from the Stadium of Light.
But Bardsley believes he has impressed enough in the Black Cats’ pre-season to be part of the club’s future.
“I feel in decent shape and I’m ready for the new campaign,” he told the Chronicle Live. “I feel good, and fitter than I’ve ever felt.
“I haven’t spoken to the manager, I’m just concentrating on myself. It’s a funny old game, so who knows what’s around the corner.
“I’m not bothered about speculation, I’m not too concerned about what other people think. I just look after myself and get on with my own business. I’m in the frame of mind to continue here.
“Of course I want to stay. If you look at the successful teams in the Premier League, they have players who they have for a number of years and they build round them.
“Hopefully I can stay in the manager’s plans, and if I can I’ll be delighted. If I have to move on I’ll do what’s best for myself and go and play some football.
“I hope I’m still here at the start of the season, but it’s the manager’s decision. If he wants me I’ll be here, but if not then it’ll be time for me to move on – we’ll have to see.”
