Sunderland could be without Aiden McGeady for the clash with Lincoln City, according to reports from Chronicle Live.

The 35-year-old has been a huge player for the Black Cats since Lee Johnson was appointed in December, scoring six goals and creating an impressive 15 for the club - making him the leading creative force in League One.

If Johnson's side are to thrive in the play-off second leg they'll need all of their best players but may have to be without McGeady due to a contract development.

McGeady's contract is due to expire this summer, however it's claimed that his current deal will be triggered for 12 more months if the winger makes 30 starts for the club this season.

As it stands, the experienced Republic Of Ireland international has started 29 games this term which means that a start against Lincoln City on Saturday could tie the Wearsiders into another 12 months for the most expensive player on their books.

Chronicle Live claim that Sunderland are unwilling to action the 12-month extension, meaning that they face something of a dilemma going into the weekend.

One option is for Aiden McGeady to waive the clause which would mean that he could start on Saturday with no obligation of extending his deal, however it remains to be seen whether the winger will agree to that.

 

 

The verdict

This is a huge dilemma for Sunderland.

Given that the Black Cats are 2-0 down they certainly need Aiden McGeady to play for them if they're to stand any chance of reaching the play-off final.

However it's just impractical for the club to have McGeady for another year on his current wage packet - a sum which is more akin to a club at the top of the Championship.

Lee Johnson will need this situation resolving and quickly, as the last thing they need is a major distraction ahead of their biggest match in several years.