League One bound Sunderland could be set to lose John O'Shea on a free transfer, according to The Mirror's Live Transfer Blog [Thursday 10th May].

O'Shea is out of contract now that the Championship season has come to a close and he is considering his options.

The 37-year-old is hanging up his boots on the international scene after announcing that the upcoming friendly match at home to the United States will be his 177th and final cap for his country.

And he is also considering his options on the domestic stage with a number of Championship clubs ready to offer the veteran defender a contract.

O'Shea joined Sunderland in 2011 after leaving Manchester United and he has since made over 250 appearances for the Black Cats.

In his career, he has played a total of 445 Premier League games combined for Man United and Sunderland.

Championship clubs are now lining up moves for the highly-decorated soon-to-be free agent, who has won five Premier League titles, among other accolades.

The Irishman was named Sunderland's Player of the Year despite the fact that they finished bottom of the league but they might struggle to keep him on the wages he has been on.

The Verdict

John O'Shea imminent departure from Sunderland might not necessarily be a bad thing.

With his career coming to an end, it is time for the Black Cats to just sever all their ties with the squad that has seen them suffer relegation twice in consecutive seasons and start a rebuilding project.

With O'Shea's wages off the bill, Sunderland could bring in one or two new younger defenders.

Sunderland fans - Would you like O'Shea to stay or go? Let us know below...