Sunderland boss Jack Ross has given an update on the future of veteran midfielder Lee Cattermole.
The former Black Cat’s captain has been linked with a bizarre move to French Ligue 1 side Bordeaux, who are managed by former Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet.
But so far a deal between the two sides is yet to be agreed.
Having come off the bench in the one-all draw with Luton Town this weekend, Ross is set to recall Cattermole in Thursday’s Carabao Cup tie with Sheffield Wednesday.
According to the Northern Echo, Ross regards Cattermole as an important part of his squad.
Cattermole is reportedly on £40,000-a-week and has three years remaining on his contract at the Stadium of Light.
Should the loan move across the channel be confirmed, it is likely that Sunderland will need to cover a proportion of the midfielder’s wages.
Speaking to the Northern Echo, Ross said: He said: “From my perspective, nothing changes.
“He’s been part of our squad from day one of pre-season. His training and how he’s conducted himself, he’s been a credit to himself.
“Then, it’s about me picking a squad on what we need for specific games. He will remain part of the team until I’m directed otherwise.
“We’ve managed to do a lot in a short period of time to help us be in a stronger position. From my perspective in terms of looking solely at football, he remains part of the squad at present.”
The Verdict
This is one of the more bizarre transfer stories of the summer, but with no movement, Cattermole is still going to have a part to play in Sunderland’s season.
If he stays, he has the chance to right the wrongs of the past two seasons, and if he goes, a high chunk of change will come off the wage bill
Should he stay, however, Ross has already said he sees the midfielder in his plans and he would certainly play a part.
If he fails to feature regularly, then the option to ship him out will come round soon enough when the January window opens.
If he isn’t going to feature much, bite the bullet and offload, there’s still a three-year deal to his name that isn’t going to get cheaper as time goes on.