Sunderland will be without defender Billy Jones for the final game of their season, caretaker manager Robbie Stockdale has confirmed.

This could spell the end of Jones' spell at Sunderland with his contract due to expire at the end of this season.

The 31-year-old will not be getting a final game against champions Wolves at the Stadium of Light this Sunday.

But Stockdale could call upon some of his younger players to feature for the Black Cats, who have already finished at the bottom of the pile in the Championship.

Stockdale mentioned four young players who have been in and around the first-team picture and who could get a game against Wolves, while also adding that George Honeyman - a Sheffield Wednesday transfer target - is "desperate" to play.

The Sunderland assistant said: "There will be lot of young lads in and around the squad on Sunday."

Bali Mumba was on the bench last Friday and could play while Elliot Embleton, Luke Molyneux and Denver Hume could also be selected.

Mumba, 16, is a central midfielder who is considered to be one of Sunderland's brightest prospects while 19-year-old Embleton plays in the same position and has two first-team appearances under his belt.

Hume plays at left-back and Molyneux is a 20-year-old winger-come-forward with a high reputation.

Talking about the young players, Stockdale added: "The exposure they are getting will do them the world of good. I have been proud of their progression."

The Verdict

With the final game being a dead rubber for both Sunderland and Wolves, it might be time to give game time to the youngsters. While there is little to play for in the final game of the season, Stockdale must also be cautious that he does not chuck too many youth team players in at once and dishearten them against a very strong Wolves side. If I was in charge, I would start with Embleton and Hume but give Mumba and Molyneux cameo outings.

Sunderland fans - Would you like to see any of these youngsters play? Is this the end for Jones? Let us know below...