It had previously been reported by the Sunderland Echo that Sunderland were targeting a move for Burton Albion forward Liam Boyce.

Boyce has been in impressive form this season for Nigel Clough's side, as he's scored 14 goals in 33 appearances, as the Brewers sit ninth in the third tier standings.

But there will have been questions raised as to whether Sunderland needed to sign another striker in this month's transfer window, with Kyle Lafferty recently arriving on a deal until the end of this year's league campaign.

Speaking in a pre-match press conference (quotes sourced from the Sunderland Echo) ahead of their game against Doncaster Rovers on Friday evening, Sunderland boss Phil Parkinson hinted that their interest in Boyce is coming to an end.

"With Liam, he’s a player I’ve known for a while and we’ve watched recently.

"With Lafferty coming in, and Charlie and Griggy at the top end of the pitch, to bring another one would I think be one too many."

Sunderland are currently sat sixth in the League One table, and will be hoping they can continue their fine run of form which has seen them force themselves back into the play-off places.

The Black Cats are currently unbeaten in their last seven league games, but will be well-aware of the threat that Darren Moore's side are going to carry on Friday.

Can you name these former Sunderland defenders? Test your knowledge in our quiz!

The Verdict: 

Parkinson's comments don't surprise me at all.

I think Sunderland made a smart move in signing Kyle Lafferty this month, and they already have a number of players vying for a starting spot in Phil Parkinson's squad each week.

The Black Cats boss only plays one striker in his starting XI, so if they were to sign Boyce, then I struggle to see him starting ahead of the likes of Charlie Wyke and Kyle Lafferty.

I think it's a wise move for them to cool their interest in the Burton Albion man, and it means they can turn their attentions now to strengthening other areas of their squad, as they look to win promotion back into the Championship this season.