Sunderland have opened talks with some of their out-of-contract players with a view to extending their stays on Wearside.
The contracts of eight first-teamers are due to expire this summer and, while the majority will be allowed to leave, boss David Moyes has previously said that one or two would be offered new deals.
And when asked who would be staying and leaving, the Black Cats boss today said: “We won’t put names, but the players all know [their situation] and we’re in discussions with quite a few of their agents etc.
The chief executive is dealing with that.
“After the season there’ll be a retained list, as you’d expect.”
Moyes has already confirmed that young midfielder George Honeyman has been offered a new contract.
And aside from him, the most likely candidates to be kept on are skipper John O’Shea and midfielder Seb Larsson.
The feeling is that, even at the age of 35, O’Shea could play a part for Sunderland in the Championship next season, and possibly also take on some kind of coaching role, if offered a one-year deal.
Midfielder Larsson is also an experienced and long-serving player who would be an asset at Championship level.
Striker Victor Anichebe’s injury record means there is a question-mark over whether he would justify a new deal.
Jan Kirchhoff’s injury problems mean he is expected to leave, along with the likes of Joleon Lescott and Steven Pienaar who were signed as short-term solutions.
Winger Will Buckley has spent the last two seasons out on loan and will not be retained.
- Chroniclelive