Sunderland chairman Stewart Donald has suggested that Lamine Kone won't be with the club next season in an interview with the popular Roker Rapport podcast.

Donald is a regular on the Roker Rapport and he took part in an interview after returning to the UK for the recent 5-4 reverse against Coventry City.

That result has left the Black Cats third in the table, two points behind Barnsley but with a game in hand. Below them, Portsmouth are level on points but have just two fewer goals whilst Charlton are now just one point behind, albeit having played a game more.

Whilst things are tight, the changes at the Stadium of Light are remarkable and shedding the under-performing high-earners has allowed the squad to develop and compete.

One who does remain on the club's books is Kone, currently on loan with Strasbourg. He joined the club for £5m in 2016 but is now likely to remain in France with his current loan club.

“The club he's at have got an option which they can exercise if they want to keep him for a fee, we believe that is likely," Donald told the podcast.

“If that doesn't happen based on what we're being told and how we feel, I think he'll find another club, I'd be amazed if you see Lamine back here in a Sunderland shirt.”

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The 30-year-old began his career with Châteauroux before moving to Lorient, which is where he impressed enough for his switch to the Black Cats. He represented France up to Under 20 level, before switching allegiances to the Ivory Coast.

The Verdict

It would be a huge surprise if Kone did come back. To some degree, he represents the excess that cost Sunderland not only their top flight status, but also their place in the Championship.

They wouldn't want him back now, he's yesterday's news. They're moving forward and for him to return would be a massive step back.