The official Sunderland AFC Thread

The official Sunderland AFC Thread @4chan

News/Chat/Talk/Signings

Continued from the other threads:
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In the end zone - in the six

North East events company, 1879 Event Management, a subsidiary of Sunderland AFC, has landed its first local authority contract for a major music event later this summer.
 
The company was appointed by South Tyneside Council to act as a ticketing agent and catering supplier for Sound Waves 2013, which is being co-headlined by Little Mix and McFly at Bents Park, South Shields on 25 August.
 
As part of the new contract the box office at the Stadium of Light will sell tickets for the Bank Holiday event, while 1879 Event Management will provide catering services for the thousands of music fans that are expected to attend.
 
Cllr. Ernest Gibson, Mayor of South Tyneside Council, said: “1879 Event Management has a proven track record for successfully delivering large scale events. This experience, coupled with their enthusiasm and highly-competitive tender, made them the perfect suppliers for Sound Waves 2013 and we look forward to working with them in the run up to the big event.”
 
1879 Event Management currently manages the catering and events services at the Stadium of Light, as well as the National Glass Centre in Sunderland, has worked on a number of high profile events since being established in 2012, including the recent Newcastle Pride.
 
This latest contract represents the company’s strategy of diversifying into a wide range of sectors and expanding its range across the entire North East.
 
It also marks the first time that the Stadium of Light’s box office has sold tickets for an external event, having previously concentrated on match day sales and its own in-house concerts.
 
Gary Hutchinson, Commercial Director for SAFC, said: “Over the last 12 months 1879 Event Management has proven it can cater effectively for a wide range of events, from delivering fine dining for corporate dinners to feeding thousands of hungry music lovers at Newcastle Pride.
 
“We are delighted that these capabilities have been recognised by South Tyneside Council and hope to work with more of the region’s local authorities in the near future.”

CABRAL says new-look Sunderland must find a common language in the Far East to ease their transition into the Premier League.

Paolo Di Canio’s side landed here in Hong Kong yesterday afternoon to prepare for their inaugural appearance in the Barclays Asia Trophy, which begins against Spurs on Wednesday night.

All eight of Sunderland’s first-team summer signings are expected to feature in the two-game tournament, as head coach Di Canio attempts to mould together his dramatically overhauled side.

With so many fresh faces, Bosman arrival Cabral admits he expects the opening months of the season to provide a steep learning curve for Sunderland, particularly as only three of the new boys - Vito Mannone, David Moberg Karlsson and Jozy Altidore - are fluent in English.

But the midfielder says Sunderland’s time together in Hong Kong, after their 10-day training camp in Italy, could be crucial in creating some harmony for the Black Cats.

Cabral told the Gazette: “It will definitely be complicated for us during the first few months of the season with a lot of new players.

“We’ll have to work hard in training to work out our tactics and the way we play.

“Whenever you have a new-look side, it is difficult. So in the first few months, it will be hard.

“But if we prepare right and begin to communicate, we can have a good season.

“I can speak a little English.

“But during the time in Hong Kong, I’m sure the new signings will pick up some more, like we did in Italy.

“When you’re talking with the players you are playing with, you have to take and learn how to say things and you pick up things pretty quickly.

“We were able to do a lot of work in Italy and put in the hard yards which should help us.

“The last few years have been hard at this club, the team and the town.

“But everything changes with the team this summer and I get the impression that if we work hard, we can do well.”

The tournament will provide Sunderland’s overseas recruits with a taste of Premier League football, with the Black Cats facing either Manchester City or South China FC on Saturday.

It is not totally alien for Cabral anyway after he featured against Wednesday’s opponents Spurs for Basel in the Europa League last season and took on Manchester United in the Champions League two years ago.

But the 24-year-old is relishing the prospect of competing in the Premier League on a weekly basis after being given a glowing recommendation by his cousin, former Man City midfielder Gelson Fernandes.

Cabral added: “He said the Premier League was the best competition in the world.

“It was good to play against Tottenham last season and two years ago I played at Manchester United.

“To play in such a stadium was a bit of a dream, with 40,000 or 50,000 fans.

“It was a good atmosphere, but there is in Switzerland too. The fans enjoy their football too.

“But England, is the fortress of football and I can’t wait to play in front of a full stadium at Sunderland.”

JOHN O’SHEA hopes Sunderland’s summer spending spree will banish any relegation fears for the Black Cats next season.

Sunderland have been the most active Premier League club in the transfer market during the close-season after adding eight fresh faces to the first-team squad, while they are on the verge of sealing a ninth deal, with the imminent capture of Argentine right-back Gino Peruzzi.

The Black Cats were clearly in need of reinforcements after finishing in 17th spot last season, just three points clear of the relegation places.

But O’Shea, who will skipper Sunderland in Hong Kong with Lee Cattermole still sidelined, is hopeful that the improved competition for places can see Paolo Di Canio’s side stay clear of the Premier League dogfight.

O’Shea said: “It (competition) has increased from last season and hopefully we are looking to be nowhere near last season’s position and to make sure we are comfortably surviving in the Premier League.

“We hope the new lads settle in very quickly because the start of the season soon comes round.”

Sunderland have already signed Cabral, Valentin Roberge, Modibo Diakite, Emanuele Giaccherini, Jozy Altidore, El-Hadji Ba, David Moberg Karlsson and Vito Mannone this summer.

They arrived in Hong Kong yesterday with an impressive level of fitness already under their belts after spending 10 days at a training camp, in Italy.

But Wednesday’s clash with Spurs will provide Sunderland’s first genuine test of pre-season, as Di Canio’s make their maiden friendly appearance in public of the summer.

The fixture offers a neat symmetry from the end of last season, where Sunderland finished the campaign with a 1-0 defeat at White Hart Lane after Gareth Bale smashed home a stunning last-minute winner.

O’Shea added: “We have had 10 to 11 days in Italy before here so we have had a good base built up over there.

“So we are hoping for some very competitive games to look forward to in Hong Kong.

“Tottenham will be a fantastic test. We had a couple of good games against them last season, especially the final match of the season where it was 0-0 until a certain Mr Bale intervened in the last couple of minutes!

“It will be a good test to see where we are fitness-wise but it will be good to get to see some fans out in Hong Kong too.

“We hope to put on a good show for these fans who cannot come over to see the Premier League.”

Panathinaikos winger Charis Mavrias was seemingly bound for the Stadium of Light when the two clubs agreed a fee almost two weeks ago. Ever since, almost no movement has been seen from either side, insinuating that the potential transfer may be off, according to The Sunderland Echo. The move was likely thwarted by last week’s capture of Juventus winger Emanuele Giaccherini.

In a extremely busy summer for Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio, around ten new transfers have already been unveiled to strengthen and provide depth to the nearly relegated Premiership side. A fortnight ago the Greek teenager, Mavrias, was widely expected to be the next signing when Panathinaikos agreed to a £2.5 million fee.

Reports from the Sunderland Echo revealed that the promising teen was expected to fly to Sunderland in order to complete a medical and negotiate a contract, but instead has not been found anywhere near the club’s facilities.

Since agreeing a fee with the Greek club, Sunderland has seen winger Emanuele Giaccherini arrive from Turin on a £6.5 million transfer to boost attacking options on the wing. With the addition of the 27-year old Italian, a move for Mavrias is seemingly less likely, especially considering that both players are natural left wingers.

Sunderland has seen an influx of new transfers this season, being one of the most active teams on the market with the addition of ten new players. Movement in the market may not be finished yet, and a move for the young Greek is certainly still possible. Any reinforcements would be greatly helpful to a squad that finished in 17th place last season, a mere three points off the relegation zone.

Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has promised the club's supporters that his team will not be involved in a relegation battle this season.

The Italian also believes the Black Cats will play better and more stylish football after making a host of changes to his squad this summer.

Sunderland only avoided the drop from the Premier League by three points last season after Di Canio replaced Martin O'Neill as boss at the end of March.

"For sure, our plan is to play better football and stay up more comfortably than last year," said Di Canio ahead of the Barclays Asia Trophy clash with Spurs in Hong Kong on Wednesday.

"During the season, the plan that you make at the beginning of the season can change, but I am sure that we will finish in a more comfortable position this year because the players are good players and are concentrating.

"I also need to change the mentality a bit that I found last year. But I can tell you that something has changed a lot and I really think that we will have a very good season.

"You saw how we tried to play much more from the back last year. We want to have a clear identity on the field. We will have a clear identity and we play much more football than we played last year."

Paolo Di Canio takes his side to the Asia Trophy which kicks off this week, with our tipster backing the Black Cats to overcome the challenge of Spurs

Sunderland take on Tottenham Hotspur this week in the first match of the Asia Trophy. The two sides are joined by Manchester City and South China FC in the competition.

The last time Spurs and Sunderland met was the final day of the season last May, with Andre Villas-Boas' men coming out on top in a tight 1-0 victory.

Sunderland come into this match on the back of winning their first pre-season friendly against Swiss side Chiasso 1-0. It was a tough season last term for the Black Cats, but Paolo Di Canio’s men survived the drop after two fantastic wins against Newcastle and Everton.

The Italian has already made a number of signings this summer, with the likes of Vito Mannone, Jozy Altidore and Emanuele Giaccherini coming in. Bet365 price them at a long to progress to the final in the Asia Trophy.

Tottenham have had a poor pre-season so far, drawing both their matches against League One sides. Despite Gareth Bale opening the scoring against Swindon last week, Spurs could not hold on, conceding a late goal to draw 1-1.

Three days later Villas-Boas took a strong squad to Colchester, but neither side could break the deadlock in a 0-0 draw. Despite a slow start this summer, Bet365 price Spurs at to take victory. The same firm has the draw at .

A bet that stands out in this fixture is Sunderland/Draw double chance at with Bet365. Di Canio has showed a lot of intent this summer with his signings and he looks to have put together a strong squad.

There were glimpses at the end of last season of what he can produce, and with Spurs currently unable to find a win in pre-season, the price of this double chance bet is too good to ignore.

PAOLO DI CANIO has total confidence that Emanuele Giaccherini will follow in his footsteps and prove that Italian players can thrive in the Premier League, writes Chris Young in Hong Kong

Sunderland splashed out £6.5million to bring Giaccherini to the Stadium of Light from Juventus, with the 28-year-old earmarked to add creativity out wide.

There have been big money exports from Serie A who have struggled to cope with the physical demands of the English top flight in the past; the likes of Alberto Acquilani at Liverpool and Massimo Maccarone at Middlesbrough.

But Sunderland head coach Di Canio, one of the most successful Italian imports in the Premier League’s history, believes Giaccherini will develop into into one of the most eye-catching players in the top flight next season.

“Some (Italian) players haven’t had complete success in England, but in the past there are some who did have complete success!” said Di Canio.

“I’m sure Giaccherini is going to impress everybody. There is no doubt about his technical quality.

“It’s obvious that English football is one of the most difficult leagues in the world because the dynamics are completely different to anywhere else in the world.

“In Spain or Italy, you spend seven or eight months under the sun. In England, you have more tackles and in the winter you have no break.

“To adapt is not easy because you have to completely change your mentality.

“But I was sure about Giaccherini’s attitude. Before I signed him, I wanted to check to see whether he had the right mentality.

“But this lad is fantastic and he’s going to be one of the best players in this league.”

Di Canio sounded a note of caution though by declaring that supporters shouldn’t expect too much from Giaccherini during pre-season.

The Italian international had just 10 days of holiday during the summer after representing his country in the Confederations Cup and is still playing catch-up with Sunderland’s fitness regime.

“He’s a very humble guy but in the last few years, he has been one of the best players in the world,” added Di Canio.

“We won’t see the best of him in Hong Kong because he only joined us a few days ago.

“He still feels a bit heavy, even if he’s very small. But for the future, he will be a crucial player.”

Match Preview: The Imps V Sunderland U21's

Tonight sees Lincoln's first home friendly of what has been a mixed pre-season so far. Of course, very few conclusions can be drawn from friendly matches, however, the personnel that they've had to put out has spoken volumes about potential weaknesses that could impact the season proper. Jake Sheridan, a winger, has been a mainstay at right-back in the absence of Tom Miller, and both Mo Fofana and Todd Jordan have had to fill in at centre-back. With Jordan himself now injured, Gary Simpson#s chosen back four tonight will be an interesting one. Encouragingly for the Imps, they've managed to score in every game they've played so far, including seven in a rout against City-neighbours Lincoln United. Goals have been readily conceded, however, with Miller and Nat Brown absent - two defenders that are almost certainly first-choice in their respective positions - that's perhaps understandable.

Sunderland's development side are the opposition for tonight's game, and with their senior counterparts in Asia participating in a pre-season tournament, it is unlikely that any 'big names' will grace the Sincil Bank turf, except, perhaps, Phil Bardsley; the former Manchester United youngster who fell out with Paolo Di Canio after an incident last season. The full-back, who has been capped for Scotland 12 times, has been unable to shine so far this pre-season, featuring in a development squad friendly with Southampton that ended goalless, and a 3-2 defeat against Darlington's first-team. The former Rangers, Aston Villa and Sheffield United loanee will be looking to impress, in order to find a team willing to take him on and end his Sunderland nightmare.

Jordan Pickford, Sunderland's highly-rated young goalkeeper who should be familiar to Lincoln fans having played against them for Alfreton last season, is in Hong Kong with the senior squad. As such, Joel Dixon is expected to start in goal for the Black Cats. The young stopper played eight times on loan in the Conference North with Workington Reds last season, so has experience of senior football. Sunderland's development side has used the same starting lineup in both of their friendlies so far: Dixon, Marrs, Ferguson, Gorrin, Harrison, Bardsley, Mitchell, Laing , Trialist, Knott and Lynch, and it wouldn't be a surprise for them to be unchanged again. Marrs is the development side captain, and the right-back featured several times in Sunderland's first-team matchday squad last season. Ferguson played six times for Darlington's first-team before they folded, and was snapped up by Sunderland after a successful trial. The defender was on the bench for Sunderland's last game of the season. Scott Harrison had a similar route to Sunderland, having featured 10 times for Darlington before their financial collapse, and joined Ferguson as a substitute for Sunderland's final game against Spurs. Louis Laing is a classy centre-back who missed much of last season with injury, however, before that he had featured from the bench for Sunderland's first-team, and played 11 League One games for Wycombe at the beginning of last year. Adam Mitchell's a striker who came off the bench to play against Spurs last season, as did Billy Knott, a midfielder with first-team experience from a loan at Woking last season. Gorrin is a Spanish midfielder capable of scoring screamers, and Craig Lynch is a forward with first-team experience with Sunderland, and a loan spell at Hartlepool under his belt.

Many of Sunderland's expected side have experience senior football, and as such tonight should be a difficult test for the Imps. A clean sheet would be a welcome boost, and may begin to allay the fears of some Lincoln fans that a leaky defence could hamper their chances next season. It is likely that Ben Tomlinson will make his first appearance since signing for the club, whilst the rest of the side seems to pick itself.

Expected Imps lineup:
Farman
Sheridan Boyce Foster Newton
Nolan Fofana
Power Rowe Tomlinson
Wright

A round-up of the latest Sunderland stories and transfer rumours on Wednesday, July 24.

The Sunderland Echo claims Paolo Di Canio is looking for two full-backs and a midfield playmaker to complete his summer overhaul at the club.

The Daily Mail report that Sunderland target Aly Cissokho could be set to join Liverpool on a season-long loan deal before completing a permanent deal next summer.

Matej Vydra’s agent has said he feels West Ham could be the perfect club for his player. Sunderland have been credited with an interest in the player but he could now be on his way to Upton Park.

Sunderland 3-1 Tottenham: Black Cats run riot as Bale misses out

Spurs, without their Welsh star, let an early lead slip as Paolo Di Canio's side came from behind to win thanks to goals from Cabral, Wes Brown and David Moberg Karlsson

Sunderland progressed to the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy, where they will face either Manchester City or South China, after coming from behind to beat Tottenham 3-1 in a scrappy affair in Hong Kong.

Spurs took the lead through Gylfi Sigurdsson, whose close-range effort deflected off John O'Shea and arced into the goal, but conceded minutes later when Wearside new-boy Cabral was sent through on goal and calmly stroked the ball home.

Centre-back Wes Brown netted from a corner after the Black Cats' profligate frontline had wasted a number of chances, before substitute David Moberg Karlsson rounded off the win on the stroke of full-time.

Gareth Bale was absent for Tottenham after picking up a knock in training, while Paolo Di Canio named four new signings in his starting XI, including Jozy Altidore and Emanuele Giaccherini.

Kick-off at the Hong Kong Stadium was delayed by half an hour due to poor weather, with parts of the pitch heavily waterlogged, and the halves were reduced to 40 minutes.

Sunderland adapted to the conditions much quicker than their opponents, with Spurs' attempts at playing crisp, one-touch football hampered by the heavy, cut-up turf.

Stephane Sessegnon was able to break clear when Steven Caulker misjudged a long ball, but the Benin international's goal-bound shot was thwarted by Michael Dawson. The Spurs skipper was forced to make another flying block to deny Cabral's long-range attempt soon after.

Tottenham were controlling possession, though, and managed to make that count in the 28th minute. Kyle Walker burst down the flank, shrugging off Giaccherini, before sending a low cross into the box which was fired into the back of the net by Sigurdsson.

Soon after, a woeful first touch from Tom Huddlestone gifted possession to Sunderland deep in Spurs' half, allowing Cabral to race through on goal and coolly slot the ball beyond the reach of Heurelho Gomes and into the bottom corner.

Sunderland, unchanged in the second half, should have taken the lead moments after the restart, but Altidore scuffed a volley from inside the six-yard box.

There was bad news for Tottenham as second-half substitute Jan Vertonghen was stretchered off the pitch with a serious injury. Rising to contest a header with Sessegnon, the Belgian's ankle buckled beneath him on landing.

Altidore fired narrowly wide after play resumed, wriggling between a sea of white shirts, before swift counterattacking interplay between Jermain Defoe and Clint Dempsey released Emmanuel Adebayor, whose curling, scooped effort was palmed away by Vito Mannone.

The ex-Arsenal shot-stopper was almost immediately forced into action again, pawing away a powerful Defoe effort after Danny Rose, on loan at the Stadium of Light last year, had whipped in a dangerous cross.

Those misses would prove costly, as Brown escaped Zeki Fryers to head in Moberg Karlsson's pin-point cross at the back post, with substitute Brad Friedel left helpless.

As Tottenham pressed forward for an equaliser, they were almost stung on the break. Sessegnon raced clear of Dawson and squared the ball for Altidore, but the American was thwarted by countryman Friedel.

The veteran keeper then pushed away a stinging drive from El-Hadji Ba, before clawing out a header from Connor Wickham that looked as though it was flying into the top corner, but could do nothing to deny Moberg Karlsson after the Swede broke the offside trap and tucked the ball into the bottom corner.

Jozy Altidore has revealed Sunderland's 3-1 Barclays Asia Trophy victory over Tottenham was the hardest game of his life following the death of his boyhood mentor.

The 23-year-old striker ran out at the Hong Kong Stadium yesterday a day after learning that his first coach, Josef Schulz, had lost his battle with cancer at the age of 61.

Altidore told the Sunderland Echo: "For me, it was always going to be a difficult game. It was probably the hardest game of my life because on Tuesday, I had some bad news.

"The guy who got me into football lost his fight with cancer. Everything I've known has come from him, so it was a really difficult game.

"But I was happy that I could play and show the guys that I'm committed. That was the biggest thing for me, to show I care and that I'm committed.

"I'm a private guy, I haven't really talked about it. I didn't care if anyone knew about it.

"But these guys have been working so hard that I owed it to them to go out on the pitch and give something to them."

Schulz spotted the former AZ Alkmaar frontman's talent as an eight-year-old in Florida and worked with him at both the Boca Raton Soccer Club and the Schulz Soccer Academy before he joined New York Red Bulls.

Altidore played his part in a hugely encouraging win over Spurs, and might have opened his goal account shortly after the break, only to pass up a glorious opportunity.

He said: "I had a few chances, but I'm just happy that I can get these games in."

One man who did find the back of the net was 33-year-old defender Wes Brown, who marked his return from more than a year on the sidelines with his side's second goal to confirm his fitness and further persuade manager Paolo Di Canio that he has a part to play next season.

Di Canio said: "I have to be honest and say that with a team I wanted to rebuild, I thought at the beginning that he was not on my list for the future.

"After one year and two months out, at his age, I couldn't start thinking about a player who I didn't know if I could rely on.

"I spoke to him and was clear that he wasn't on the list. But I'm very happy to tell him now that he's completely on my list. He has got experience, quality, desire and he can help the others."

Sunderland captain Lee Cattermole’s days at the Stadium of Light look numbered after his squad number was taken away by manager Paolo Di Canio and handed to one of his summer signings.

The former Middlesbrough and Wigan midfielder, who was skipper under Steve Bruce and Martin O’Neill prior to Di Canio’s arrival, has been left at home and missed his club’s tour to Italy and Hong Kong.

And his number six shirt, which he has worn since 2010, was handed to new signing Cabral for the opening game of the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong. The Swiss international scored for Sunderland against Tottenham Hotspur.

Cattermole, reported to be recovering from the knee injury which forced him to miss the latter stages of last season, has been left to train with the club’s development players, and fellow outcast Phil Bardsley.

The 25-year-old combative midfielder did not even play under Di Canio last season, after suffering a serious knee injury in February.

Cattermole, who was not informed of the decision to give his shirt to a new team-mate, still has three years left on his contract at Wearside after signing a new deal under O’Neill last year. He was sent off four times in his Sunderland career but has largely won over supporters.

Hull City boss Bruce is among the managers who could offer Cattermole an escape route, and sign him for the third time. Fulham and Cardiff City are also interested in a player who would command a free of around £2million.

Di Canio is eager to trim his squad after adding nine players so far this summer. Fellow midfielders David Vaughan, Craig Gardner, Seb Larsson and James McClean could also be allowed to leave, if the Italian can find suitable buyers, and fees. He has already loaned Danny Graham to Hull and Alfred N’Diaye – like Graham an O’Neill addition in January – is on the verge of returning to Turkey.

Scotland striker Steven Fletcher has also been forced to miss the trip to the Far East as he recovers from an ankle injury. The former Wolves and Hibs forward, Sunderland’s top scorer last season despite a lengthy absence, was left out of the Scotland squad to face England next month.

Despite interest from Celtic concerning his immediate future, Fletcher is expected to start the season at Sunderland.

Wes Brown marked his return from injury with a goal and two new signings were on the scoresheet as Sunderland defeated Tottenham Hotspur to reach Saturday's Barclays Asia Trophy final in Hong Kong.

Brown, who last played in pre-season a year ago, headed home David Moberg Karlsson's 64th-minute corner after new boy Cabral had cancelled out Gylfi Sigurdsson's opener, before Karlsson himself made sure with a third at the death.

Kick-off at the Hong Kong Stadium was delayed for half an hour by torrential rain which left surface water on the pitch, and the decision was taken to restrict the match to two 40-minute halves when it did eventually get under way.

There was no Gareth Bale, linked with a move to Real Madrid by reports in Spain, in the Spurs side because of injury, while Wearsiders boss Paolo Di Canio included summer signings Vito Mannone, Cabral, Emanuele Giaccherini and Jozy Altidore.

Conditions remained difficult, but the Londoners took the lead with 28 minutes gone when full-back Kyle Walker broke down the right and squared for Sigurdsson, whose snapshot was unwittingly deflected past keeper Mannone by John O'Shea.

Sunderland levelled within six minutes when Altidore capitalised on Tom Huddlestone's error to play in midfielder Cabral, who finished adeptly.

Altidore passed up a golden opportunity to open his account two minutes after the restart and after half-time substitute Jan Vertonghen had departed on a stretcher following an awkward landing, Mannone saved well from Emmanuel Adebayor.

The Italian produced a fine stop to deny half-time substitute Jermain Defoe on the hour, but Brown headed the Wersiders in front from replacement Karlsson's 64th-minute corner.

Altidore might have made sure nine minutes from time but was denied by Brad Friedel, but the keeper could do nothing to prevent Karlsson from making it 3-1 in the final minute.

Sunderland will face Manchester City in the final, after Manuel Pellegrini's team edged South China 1-0 in the other semi-final thanks to a goal from Edin Dzeko.

Pellegrini, appointed as successor to the sacked Roberto Mancini in June, was returning to the dugout having been absent for family reasons earlier this month when his side were beaten 2-1 by AmaZulu - City's second defeat in two pre-season friendlies.

The Chilean included midfielder Fernandinho, one of the Blues' summer signings,in the starting line-up and saw his team look comfortable in the opening exchanges, with Dzeko firing into the side-netting and Yaya Toure then having a header saved.

City duly took the lead when Milner neatly evaded a challenge on the right and delivered a ball which Dzeko headed into the ground and past the goalkeeper from close range.

The next time City really looked threatening was two minutes after the break as Toure flashed an effort across the face of goal and wide.

South China then enjoyed a spell of pressure, before Toure was substituted for another new recruit in striker Alvaro Negredo, who was making his unofficial Blues debut and soon sent an acrobatic effort over the bar.

Negredo subsequently teed up his fellow frontman Dzeko, with the Bosnian being denied by a smart save, before the lively Milner launched an audacious long-range attempt that went off target.

Elsewhere, Southampton suffered a 2-0 loss to Schalke 04 in Austria. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Joël Matip were both on the scoresheet for the German giants, but Mauricio Pochettino will be pleased with his side after a strong performance.

Mario Balotelli and Alberto Aquilani are recent examples of big-money purchases from Serie A who struggled to make their mark in the English game.

But boss Di Canio believes Giaccherini will prove good value for his £6.5?million fee and will solve the goal shortage that saw Sunderland flirt dangerously with relegation last season.

“I’m sure Giaccherini will impress everybody,” said Di Canio ahead of his side’s pre-season clash with Tottenham in the Asia Trophy tournament here today.

“There is no doubt about his technical quality. But a player has to change his mentality completely to play here. English football is one of the more difficult leagues in the world – there are many more tackles, fixture congestion and playing in the winter.

“But I was sure about his attitude and desire to come to England. When you sign a foreign player I want to know if he loves English football and if he has a desire to understand English football and integrate himself in English life.

“Giaccherini is a fantastic lad and will be one of the best players in this league. He’s a very humble guy but he is one of the best players in one of the best national teams in the world.

“He is still a bit behind [in pre-season preparation] and he’s a bit heavy in his legs right now but in the future he will be a crucial player.”

Di Canio claims he has had to “revolutionise” Sunderland, having inherited what he described as a mess from former manager Martin O’Neill.

In a whirlwind summer, Di Canio has signed nine players, offloaded 10, instigated rigorous training regimes, tried to instil a different mentality and changed the backroom staff.

There are concerns the outspoken Italian has changed too much, too soon, but he insists change was necessary after the decline of the club under O’Neill.

And he claims Sunderland will not only be a fitter side than last season but one capable of playing better football and able to avoid a repeat of last season’s struggle against relegation.

“Obviously we made a revolution,” he said.

“I wasn’t worried at the beginning and now even less so because I’ve seen the lads working so hard. It takes a bit longer but I’m very happy. I’m not worried for the future.

“We’re still in the middle of pre-season so you can’t say the team are 100 per cent fit.

“But you are going to see straight away a team that plays together and tries to play football.

“It didn’t happen last year. More importantly this team will be completely ready for the start of the season.

“When you change a lot it’s difficult to think about a finishing place. The plan you make at the beginning of the season can change, it depends how you start.

“But our plan is to play better football and I’m sure we’ll finish in a more comfortable position this season because the players we’ve brought in are very good players.

“Obviously it is important to work hard physically but it was important to change the mentality that I found here last year.

“Already I can tell you that something has changed a lot and this tells me that we’re going to have a very good season.”

Di Canio confirmed that Argentine full-back Gino Peruzzi will not be joining his list of new arrivals because a medical revealed a damaged knee ligament.

Peruzzi’s current club in Argentina, Velez Sarsfield, claimed a deal for the 21-year-old would be completed when Sunderland returned from taking part in the Asia Cup but the move has stalled – for now at least.

“At the moment, there is no chance for Gino Peruzzi to join us,” said Di Canio.

“My club is not a club that can sign at the moment a player who is injured, even though it’s not a crucial injury.

“We are not Manchester City, who can think about buying a talented player with an injury and wait for him.”

Manuel Pellegrini celebrated his maiden win as Manchester City manager thanks to Edin Dzeko's first-half header against South China.

There they will meet Sunderland, who earlier overcame Tottenham 3-1 at the same ground.

Due to bad weather, that game started later than scheduled and was reduced to 40 minutes per half, a format then also adopted for the City contest.

Pellegrini, appointed as successor to the sacked Roberto Mancini in June, was returning to the dugout having been absent for family reasons earlier this month when his side were beaten 2-1 by AmaZulu - City's second defeat in two pre-season friendlies.

The Chilean included midfielder Fernandinho, one of the Blues' summer signings, in the starting line-up and saw his team look comfortable in the opening exchanges, with Dzeko firing into the side-netting and Yaya Toure then having a header saved.

City duly took the lead when Milner neatly evaded a challenge on the right and delivered a ball which Dzeko headed into the ground and past the goalkeeper from close range.

The next time City really looked threatening was two minutes after the break as Toure flashed an effort across the face of goal and wide.

South China then enjoyed a spell of pressure, before Toure was substituted for another new recruit in striker Alvaro Negredo, who was making his unofficial Blues debut and soon sent an acrobatic effort over the bar.

Negredo subsequently teed up his fellow frontman Dzeko, with the Bosnian being denied by a smart save, before the lively Milner launched an audacious long-range attempt that went off target.

Full-time: Lincoln City 0-2 Sunderland U-21

Lincoln City fell to a 2-0 defeat against Sunderland Under-21s despite a hard-working display by the Imps.

Second half substitute Liam Agnew struck on 90 minutes to seal the win for the Black Cats in an otherwise quiet second half.

The Imps looked lively in the first half, with the wide strikers of Adi Yussuf and Bohan Dixon causing several problems for the young Black Cats side.

On 11 minutes the Imps had a great chance to go ahead when Yussuf earned a corner, and Alan Power delivered the ball onto the unmarked head of Dixon, but he headed wide.

City continued to threaten, but against the run of play, Sunderland earned a free-kick 25 yards out. Billy Knott teed the ball up to the far post and mix up allowed Scott Harrison to nip in and score past Paul Farman.

Lincoln responded and Yussuf shot wide while Dixon again went close with a header from an Alan Power corner.

The match did see the appearance of new signing Ben Tomlinson, who showed a good turn of pace and touch at times.

Lincoln City: Farman, Sheridan, Boyce, Foster, Newton; Fofana, Power, Dixon (Robinson 68); Fairhurst (Nolan 75), Wright (Rowe 75), Yussuf (Tomlinson 75). Subs: Nolan, Rowe, Tomlinson, Robinson, Thomas, Smith (GK).

Sunderland XI: Strjyek; Cartwight, Harrison, Bardsley, Ferguson; Watmore, Gorrin, Laing, Mitchell; Knott, Lynch. Subs: Honeyman, Burke, Agnew, Holland, McNamee, Lawson, Oliver, Laidler, Egan.

Edin Dzeko was Manchester City's hero once more as Manuel Pellegrini's men overcame Sunderland to lift the Barclays Asia Trophy.

Just as he had done in the semi-final triumph over South China, Dzeko scored the only goal to give the Blues a deserved victory.

It was not quite a trouble-free victory for City as key defender Matija Nastastic was stretchered off in the second half, but they were the better side and only two goal-line clearances from Craig Gardner kept the score down.

It has been a productive few days for Dzeko. Expected to be on his way out of the Etihad Stadium this summer, the Bosnian remains and until reinforcements are brought in to compensate for the departure of Carlos Tevez and, last season, Mario Balotelli, so he is destined to remain.

Tonight the former Wolfsburg man struck early.

Yaya Toure created the opportunity with a flick-on intended for Pablo Zabaleta. Wes Brown got there first, but the former Manchester United man could only turn the ball into the path of Dzeko, who duly rammed home a brilliant half-volley which flew in off a post.

Alvaro Negredo should have made it two after being played in by David Silva but the Spaniard blasted disappointingly over.

Negredo did no better when he was picked out by Dzeko later on, this time ballooning the ball over from a central position.

City keeper Costel Pantilimon did not have much to do and even when Emanuele Giaccherini had a chance, his shot went straight at the Romanian.

Sunderland had a lucky escape just before the break when Gardner headed Silva's free-kick against his own post, then clattered into the upright himself as the Black Cats scrambled clear.

With heavy rain falling on an already saturated surface, an area of approximately 50 yards either side of the halfway line resembled a bog.

Dzeko was certainly looking suspiciously at it when he skied a penalty high over the bar midway through the second half.

On this occasion, though, the surface did not seem to be any more responsible than Dzeko's poor finishing.

City suffered a blow 17 minutes from the end when Nastastic was stretchered off following an innocuous-looking incident involving Giaccherini.

Following his earlier heroics, Gardner went one better after Samir Nasri had presented Jesus Navas with a shooting chance, sliding back to make a brilliant goal-line clearance.

Pantimilon's save from Sebastian Larsson's free-kick ensured there was no late reprieve for Sunderland.

45min: City hit the post, through Craig Gardner! A whipped free-kick is cleared towards his own goal, and it bounces off the post and clear. A lucky escape.

43min: Negredo nearly forces himself clear on goal, but O'Shea recovers well to hack the ball clear at the last minute.

41min: New Sunderland signing Giaccherini has looked bright, as City give away yet another free-kick in a dangerous area.

Altidore again gets himself about. Sunderland must utilise the striker, with City struggling to cope with his physical presence. Johnson's free-kick is deep yet again. Wasted.

36min: Zabaleta gets to the byline after good work from City going forward but his cross is cleared to safety. Dzeko's spectacular volley separates the sides still.

Getting up: Jack Colback wins the ball in mid-air for Sunderland, who named an unchanged side for the final
Getting up: Jack Colback wins the ball in mid-air for Sunderland, who named an unchanged side for the final

34min: City are building patiently, and they've got most of the ball in the final third. It's all side to side, however, with Sunderland standing tall.

32min: Dzeko meets a low driven cross just outside the area, but his shot is saved easily by Mannone. He connected well but the direction wasn't all there.

30min: City are looking direct with Negredo, with the Spaniard making runs in behind the last line of defence on several occasions. Could this be their new style?

28min: It's got the feeling and pace of a Premier League game so far, so no change there. City have looked slightly suspect at the back, with several free-kicks given away in wide areas.

Strike: Edin Dzeko celebrates after his superb opening goal in Hong Kong
Strike: Edin Dzeko celebrates after his superb opening goal in Hong Kong

26min: After a bright start, Sunderland are giving City far too much space to run forward in the middle of the park. But wait, a decent move nearly has Sessegnon through on goal, but Kompany gets his foot in just in time.

24min: Milner has space to run into, but his final ball is poor. He played well on Wednesday, and will be out to prove he can remain the engine of City's side under Manuel Pellegrini this term.

20min: Altidore was impressive against Tottenham, and he's getting himself about here too. He wins a free-kick for Johnson to whip in, but Pantilimon punches it clear.

19min: Here's Chris Wheeler in Hong Kong, and he's not particuarly happy.

'Now this is more like it. Rain of Biblical proportions. We're under a roof and we're still getting soaked.'

Stuck in: Ground staff attempt to get the water off the pitch before the final
Stuck in: Ground staff attempt to get the water off the pitch before the final

17min: It's absolutely pouring it down again, meaning the odd pot shot may cause more danger than usual. Giaccherini takes a shot from 25 yards after good work from Altidore, but it's deflected wide.

15min: Despite missing his chance, Negredo has looked to make the runs early off. He's bright and nippy, and will no doubt get another chance to show what he's all about here.

13min: Silva nearly finds Milner inside the area, but O'Shea puts in a last ditch interception and Sunderland survive, just about.

11min: Sunderland look rattled. Dzeko takes a pot shot from 25 yards again, seemingly brimming with confidence, but it's collected by Mannone.

Then just a minute later, new signing Negredo blows a good chance after being put through on goal. His first touch was fantastic, his second not so much as he hits the ball high and wide.

9min: GOAL MAN CITY! Man City 1 Sunderland 0 (Dzeko 9)

The Hong Kong crowd have got their money's worth already. Despite their bright start, Sunderland are behind.

A long ball is headed away by Wes Brown, but Edin Dzeko meets the clearance on the half volley as he blasts the ball past Mannone from 25 yards with his left foot. Brilliant goal.

6min: Sunderland are making all the early moves, with City picking up where they left off after a slow performance against South China.

Johnson has a chance to whip in a free-kick from the right, but it's too high for anyone in the City area. Good start from Di Canio's side, however.

Barclays Asia trophy
Taking cover: The rain came pouring down in between games, but the pitch has been deemed playable

Pitch
4min: The weather has been a constant talking point since the tournament started on Wednesday, but the pitch looks a bit more promising early on.

Sessesgnon is played through for Sunderland, and his through ball just about reaches Johnson on the right. The winger's pull back is cleared by Kompany, though.

2min: Seb Larsson puts in a meaty challenge on Kolarov. After the intensity of Spurs' performance in the 6-0 win over South China, it's obvious the Premier League teams are taking this tournament seriously.

Kick-off: We're off here in Hong Kong, all eyes will be on new City signing Alvaro Negredo as he starts for the first time since his £20million move from Sevilla.

1.27pm: The teams are out, and the pitch looks OK. City had their fun with the surface yesterday with a Jurgen Klinsmann-esque diving competition in the Hong Kong Stadium.

Sliding in: Vincent Kompany (left) and Joe Hart (right) lark around in the rain during Friday's training session
Sliding in: Vincent Kompany (left) and Joe Hart (right) lark around in the rain during Friday's training session

1.25pm: This is the sixth Barclays Asia Trophy final, with Chelsea winning the first and the last tournament, and Bolton, Tottenham, Portsmouth victorious in the other three.

1.20pm: City have a fair bit to prove after their less than impressive performance on Wednesday. You can blame the conditions on the day, but their overall showing wasn't up to scratch.

1.15pm: Breaking news: Manchester United have cancelled their open training session planned for Sunday at the Hong Kong Stadium due to the condition of the pitch.

The pitch has suffered from torrential rainfall in the last week, as well as staging a number of games in a very short space of time.

Eyeing up: David Moyes is in attendance at the Hong Kong Stadium, with Man United cancelling their open training session on the same pitch on Sunday due to the conditions
Eyeing up: David Moyes is in attendance at the Hong Kong Stadium, with Man United cancelling their open training session on the same pitch on Sunday due to the conditions

1.10pm: Sunderland are unchanged from their win on Wednesday, while Alvaro Negredo makes his first start in a City shirt. The ground staff had a job of getting the games ready on Wednesday, and they've had similar problems in the last hour or so.

After a dry start, the rain poured down towards the end of Spurs' 6-0 demolition of South China, but it looks as though we're going to go ahead with the final on time.

Sportsmail's Chris Wheeler is in Hong Kong:

'As soon as that game finished, Anthony Taylor - who will take charge of City v Sunderland - came onto the pitch to consult with Spurs groundsman Darren Baldwin as he assessed the effects of that brief downpour. Seems ok to me.'

1.00pm: Good afternoon and welcome to Sportsmail's coverage of the Barclays Asia Trophy final, and as expected it's an all-English affair.

After their impressive 3-1 win over Tottenham on Wednesday, Sunderland face Manchester City, who beat South China 1-0 thanks to an Edin Dzeko strike.

FULL-TIME: Manchester City 1 Sunderland 0

The referee blows up right on full-time, and Manuel Pellegrini wins his first piece of silverware as City boss. Fireworks fill the sky in Hong Kong, and everyone will be pleased that will be the last we see of the mud bath of a pitch.

87min: Sunderland are sitting back, surprisingly. City are still looking for another goal...

84min: Gardner stands over it with Larsson, but it's the latter who shoots... close! Good effort, but it's parried away well by Pantilimon.

83min: Lescott fouls Wickham on the edge of the area, City have been poor in that department. Free-kick in a very good position for Sunderland....

80min: Negredo is replaced by Gareth Barry as we enter the final 10 minutes, while Chris Wheeler has is own verdict on Dzeko's dreadful penalty miss...

'Three points to Edin Dzeko who is clearly getting confused with the Hong Kong Sevens rugby.'

79min: Close for City! Negredo squares the ball to Navas at an angle... his effort is a good one and it's going in but for Craig Gardner's last-ditch clearance.

Mud bath: Giaccherini is chased by Zabaleta as the players get to grips with the muddy conditions
Mud bath: Giaccherini is chased by Zabaleta as the players get to grips with the muddy conditions

76min: Worrying for City, Nastasic is stretchered off after falling awkwardly. It looks unclear at this stage, but it could be a groin injury. Lescott replaces him.

74min: Penalty appeal for Sunderland now, but it's the crowd appealing more than anyone. Giaccherini does well to get into the box and is challenged by Kolarov. The replays show Kolarov got the ball again, good defending.

72min: Fernandinho plays in Dzeko down the wing, but his dangerous ball goes across the face of goal and away to safety. Good play froim Fernandinho in particular.

Just a minute later Navas attempts to beat Mannone from distance, but it's parried away.

70min: Kolarov with a last-ditch tackle on Conor Wickham as the young Englishman looked through on goal. Sunderland's spirits have been lifted with that penalty miss.

67min: That really was a shocker from Dzeko. It looked like he tried to chip the ball in but got it all wrong. You definitely can't blame the pitch for that one.

66min: DZEKO MISSES!

A spectacular miss from Dzeko. The Bosnian balloons the ball five yards over the bar and into the crowd. Almost as spectacular as his goal... the best and worst of Edin Dzeko in one game.

65min: PENALTY TO MAN CITY

Fernandinho is involved straight away. The midfielder flicks the ball around Ba, who is adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area. The referee points to the spot.

62min: A couple of substitutions, Yaya Toure and Gael Clichy come off for Fernandinho and Kolarov, while Adam Johnson comes off for Karlsson.

Pummeled: O'Shea goes through the back of Negredo
Pummeled: O'Shea goes through the back of Negredo

Welcome to the Premier League: Negredo is left lying in the mud after the challenge from the Irishman
Welcome to the Premier League: Negredo is left lying in the mud after the challenge from the Irishman

Welcome to the Premier League: Negredo is left lying in the mud after the challenge from the Irishman
59min: Here's what Chris Wheeler thought of that challenge by the Irishman:

'Welcome to English football Alvaro Negredo. He’ll have to get used to challenges from behind like that one by John O’Shea. The Spaniard looks like he can take care of himself though.'

56min: Negredo is absolutely pummeled to the ground by John O'Shea, leaving the Spaniard lying in thick mud in the centre circle.

He'll remember that when the two face each other in the Premier League.

53min: Chris Wheeler is excited to see Navas, but is a tad confused with the reception Samir Nasri received when he entered the fold...

'Looking forward to getting a look at Navas, City’s new super-quick winger, even though it’s asking a bit much for Jesus to walk on water.

'Nasri also comes on at half-time to another chorus of boos – no-one seems to know why he’s copping for so much flak over here. Suggestions?'

50min: The pitch is glistening under the floodlights, but the rain has died down for now. Credit to the ground staff again, the pitch is surprisingly playable considering how bad it looks.

Pitching in: Ground staff get to work on the pitch during half-time
Pitching in: Ground staff get to work on the pitch during half-time

Hong Kong
Hong Kong

47min: Clichy fouls Johnson on the corner flag, and at last the winger's delivery is worthy. City clear, but again they're showing complacency at the back with silly fouls.

45min: Nasri and Navas come on for Milner and Silva.

Westwood has replaced Mannone in goal for Sunderland, while Ba and Wickham replace Cabral and Altidore.

HALF-TIME: Manchester City 1 Sunderland 0

City have had the quality, but I wouldn't be ruling Sunderland out just yet. Altidore has looked a handful, with City giving away far too many free-kicks on the wing. Here's Chris Wheeler's verdict:

'If the first game made a bit of a mockery of all those pre-match fears, the final is turning out more like we expected – torrential rain, swirling wind and an increasingly poor pitch.

'As much as Manchester City and Sunderland would both like to start the season with the Asia Trophy in their trophy cabinets, it’s really not worth seeing one of their players picking up a serious injury for the cause.'

The future of Sunderland's combative midfielder Lee Cattermole remains unclear after manager Paolo Di Canio refused to confirm if he will stay at the Stadium of Light.

Summer recruit Cabral wore Cattermole's No 6 shirt in Wednesday's 3-1 victory over Tottenham and Di Canio was ambivalent when asked if would remain at the club.

"He couldn't come (to Hong Kong) because he was not fully fit, in the opinion of both myself and the fitness coach," said the Italian.

"He is training with the reserves and then when we get back to Sunderland, he will be ready."

When asked if the £6m signing had a future with Sunderland, Di Canio added: "We will see. It depends."

Meanwhile, Di Canio issued a positive update on the progress of injured striker Steven Fletcher.

The Scotland international underwent ankle surgery in April but was still the club's top goalscorer last season with 11 goals, despite missing the final eight games of the campaign with the problem.

"He is improving, he has improved a lot," said Di Canio.

"We can't say how much longer it will take, but there is a big improvement and we know all about the problem.

"We are very happy with his progress and we are waiting for him."

Greek winger Mavrias heads to Sunderland as bid is back on

Sunderland's £2.5m deal for Panathinaikos winger Charas Mavrias is back on with the youngster expected in England next week

Sunderland's bid for Charas Mavrias is back on, with the Greek winger expected to travel to England next week.

The Black Cats’ £2.5m move for the Panathinaikos youngster hung in the balance 10 days ago, as it looked as though Sunderland’s interest had cooled.

But it appears that the deal will now go ahead, with sources in Greece suggesting that Mavrias is due to fly to the North East on Monday to undergo a medical and complete the switch, once Sunderland have returned from Hong Kong where they have been taking part in the Barclays Asia Trophy.

While Mavrias looks set to become Sunderland’s 10th summer signing, Lee Cattermole’s days on Wearside look numbered.

Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio was non-committal when asked whether the midfielder has a future at the club.

The Italian would only say: “We will see. It depends.”

The 25-year-old former Middlesbrough and Wigan Athletic midfielder underwent knee ligament surgery in March, and stayed in the North East to continue his rehab rather than travelling with the rest of the squad to the Far East.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are set to face Manchester City in the BAT final at the Hong Kong Stadium this afternoon – assuming the weather does not intervene.

The Black Cats’ semi-final against Spurs on Wednesday was affected by a downpour that forced kick-off to be delayed by half-an-hour and the game to be shortened to 80 minutes.

Heavy rain has continued over the last 48 hours, and Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has said that he will call off the final between Sunderland Man City, and the third-placed play-off between Spurs and South China FC which is also due to be played today, rather than put the safety of the players in jeopardy.

But Sunderland coped reasonably well with the conditions, and winger Adam Johnson is confident the conditions will not pose a major problem as he prepared to face his old club City.

“It’s obviously difficult but it’s the same for every team,” he said.

Sunderland full-back Phil Bardsley is a target for Fulham, Newcastle and Blackburn, according to Sky sources.

The Scotland international angered manager Paolo Di Canio towards the end of last season when he was pictured in a casino.

Di Canio left Bardsley out of his squad for the pre-season Asia Trophy in Hong Kong, and the 28-year-old has been back on Wearside training with the reserves.

Bardsley admitted earlier this month his time at Sunderland is up, and Sky sources understand his preference is for a move to London.

The Czech striker, 21, scored 24 goals while on loan at Watford last season and picked up the Championship player of the year award.

Udinese claimed to have rejected an £8m approach from a unnamed Premier League club earlier in the summer, while a number of top-flight teams registered their interest in a loan move for the quick forward.

Sunderland, West Ham, Swansea and Norwich have all been tracking Vydra after Watford failed in their bid for promotion from the Championship last season.

West Brom, £4m, Matej Vydra, UdineseVydra was in lethal form for Watford in the Championship last season


West Brom have made a bid and they interest Mate
Source close to Vydra

But the Baggies appear to have beaten off competition for his signature, with a source close to the player saying: "West Brom have made a bid and they interest Matej.

"He is focused on Udinese but West Brom are a club he would like to join. We have heard good things about Steve Clarke from other players.

"West Brom are clearly a club going places."

JOHN O’Shea says Sunderland’s variety of striking options can ensure the Black Cats avoid the struggles of last season.

Sunderland mustered just 41 goals in 38 Premier League games last season as they finished fourth bottom in the table, with top scorer Steven Fletcher netting 11 of that tally.

But central defender O’Shea, captaining Sunderland here in Hong Kong, says the capture of £6m frontman Jozy Altidore has provided the Black Cats with a contrast of frontmen which can give them the attacking potency to avoid featuring in the relegation dogfight for a second successive campaign.

The powerful and pacy Altidore is a different specimen to poacher Fletcher and creator Stephane Sessegnon, while Paolo Di Canio can also call upon England Under-21 striker Connor Wickham and Ji Dong-won - back from a loan spell at Bundesliga side Ji Dong-won.

O’Shea told the Gazette: “It’s so important to have different options up front.

“That was probably one of the main reasons for last season’s struggles.

“We weren’t creating enough or scoring enough.

“We won a lot of games by one goal, so if we could make things easier for everyone in the Stadium of Light, it would be nicer.

“Obviously, you’ll take a win by any means.

“But I think the important thing is the squad as a whole and its competition from midfield through to defence is a vital asset.

“That’s been the key to any good team I’ve been part of, quality competition from places.”

Altidore arrives at the Stadium of Light with a prolific goal record under his belt after netting 31 goals for Dutch side AZ Alkmaar last season.

The American international has proved himself on the Continent since his loan spell at Hull City as a teenager and O’Shea believes the 23-year-old will have no problems adapting to the Premier League in his second spell in the English top flight.

“I think he’ll definitely be more than ready for it physically,” added O’Shea.

“Speaking to him about his last time in the Premiership, he has had an amazing journey since then.

“He’s ended up scoring goals in Holland and become the national striker for the US as well.

“Hopefully he can continue that journey now by scoring goals in the Premiership and spearheading our success along with the other lads up front.”

Di Canio sends N'Diaye out to Turkey on season-long loan after just six months at Sunderland... and McClean exit could follow

Sunderland midfielder Alfred N’Diaye is the latest star to quit the Stadium of Light and he looks certain to be followed by Republic of Ireland international James McClean.

Just six months after joining Sunderland from Bursaspor, Frenchman N’Diaye has returned to Turkey to join Eskisehirspor on a season-long loan. He will be reunited with former Bursaspor coach Ertugul Saglam.

The 23-year-old midfielder made 15 appearances for Sunderland after he was signed in a £2.5million deal by Martin O’Neill in January. He was left out of the Sunderland squad which travelled to the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong following the birth of his first child but has since negotiated an exit from Wearside.

McClean meanwhile is a £2million target for Glasgow Celtic and is likely to be allowed to leave Sunderland by manager Paolo Di Canio.

The former Derry City winger was a substitute in both games in Hong Kong and has been pushed even further out of favour following the summer arrival of Italy international Emanuele Giaccherini and Swedish teenager David Moberg Karlsson who can both play wide.

Celtic have made an initial inquiry for the controversial Ireland midfielder who indicated in the summer he was unhappy with the Di Canio regime.

Scotland full-back Phil Bardsley is reported to be a target for neighbours Newcastle United but the former Manchester United defender, who played for the development squad against Spennymoor at the weekend, is more likely to return to the North West to join Blackburn Rovers, although Stoke City and Fulham still remain interested in signing him.

Meanwhile Di Canio has said he wants two more signings to add to the nine he has made so far this summer.

The Sunderland head coach, who faces Tottenham in Hong Kong on Wednesday morning, is close to agreeing a deal for Greek winger Charis Mavrias.

Sunderland are understood to have agreed a £2.5million fee with Panathinaikos for the Greece international who is expected on Wearside for a medical this week.

Craig Gardner: I'll play anywhere for Sunderland - just don't put me on the bench

Craig Gardner will take a place at full-back this season if it means regular starts for Paolo Di Canio's Sunderland.

A midfielder by trade, Gardner was occasionally deployed at right-back under Martin O'Neill and was used there by Di Canio as Sunderland were beaten by Manchester City in the final of the Asia Cup.

And the 26-year-old, who has bought into the manager's work ethic in pre-season, responded with two goal-line clearances in Hong Kong.

He said: "I just want to play as many games as I can this season, no matter what position it is.

"I would rather play anywhere than be on the bench. I am playing in pre-season. I have played four full games and I am enjoying it.

"It (pre-season) is tough, I admit it. But it is a good tough because training is hard.

"I am a firm believer that the attitude to training should be the same as it is in life generally.

"If you work hard in life you get a good life. That is what we are doing as far as training is concerned, so hopefully we will have a good season."

Newcastle eye Sunderland cast-off Phil Bardsley for shock move across the Tyne-Wear divide

Initial moves to take defender to Black Cats' bitter North-East rivals have been made PLUS Cattermole and Wickham latest

Joe Kinnear is lining up his first Newcastle signing – Phil Bardsley, who has just been ­released by big rivals Sunderland, writes Alan Oliver of the Sunday People.

The word from the defender’s camp is that the Magpies have made ­“tentative ­inquiries” for Bardsley.

And Kinnear is not put off by the 28-year-old’s bad-boy image, after he was pictured lying on a casino floor covered in £50 notes.

But if the Toon’s director of football does decide to add Bardsley to the Geordies’ ­rather threadbare squad – they are the only Premier League side not to have signed a first- team player in the close season – he will find competition from both Fulham and Blackburn.

However, reports linking Newcastle with Marseille striker Andre-Pierre Gignac are wide of the mark.

Click here for the latest on the Geordies' striker search.

At the other end of the field, a £2.5million bid should bring PSV Eindhoven keeper Jeroen Zoet to St James' Park.

Meanwhile, Sunderland ­midfielder Lee Cattermole’s hopes of j­oining Fulham on loan have been hit by a heel injury.

QPR boss Harry Redknapp is considering Sunderland's Connor Wickham on loan after Norwich beat him to Gary Hooper and losing Jamie Mackie to Nottingham Forest.

Other Championship clubs are also eyeing Wickham.

Sunderland turns to Jorge Torres Nilo

SUNDERLAND have turned to Mexico’s Jorge Torres Nilo in their search for a left-back.

Torres Nilo, 25, is valued at £5million by Tigres de la UANL and has won 34 international caps.

The Black Cats have been frustrated in their pursuit of Argentina’s Lucas Orban, 24, of Club Atletico Tigre.

And they missed out on Le Havre’s French youngster Benjamin Mendy, 19, who joined Marseille.

Meanwhile, Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio’s drawn-out £2.5m move for Panathinaikos’ Greece winger Charis Mavrias, 19, could be completed next week.

Sunderland to make new attempt at securing Alfred Duncan

SUNDERLAND are relaunching a bid for Inter Milan midfielder Alfred Duncan.

They failed last month in a move for the £7million-rated Ghanaian.

Duncan, 20, is keen to make a second loan move to Livorno, who he helped win promotion to Serie A last season.

But Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio is hoping director of football Roberto De Fanti and chief scout Valentino Angeloni, who both worked with Inter, can thrash out a deal.

Sunderland's move for Velez Sarsfield right-back Gino Peruzzi could also be back on. GinoThe Argentina international, 21, saw his proposed £5m switch collapse when he failed a medical but is undergoing rehab with Velez at Sunderland's request in a bid to overcome a knee problem.

Sunderland's Paolo Di Canio is more flamethrower than hairdryer claims John O'Shea

Black Cats defender felt Fergie's fury when at Man United and reckons his current boss is even more fiery PLUS Left-back latest

John O’Shea reckons that if Sir Alex Ferguson had the hairdryer then Paolo Di Canio’s weapon of choice would be a flamethrower, writes Simon Mullock.

Di Canio has taken a torch to the squad he inherited from Martin O’Neill last March by recruiting 10 players during a frenzied summer that has also seen nine departures from the Stadium of Light.

Having worked under ­Ferguson at Manchester United, skipper O’Shea doesn’t have a problem with ­managers who turn up the heat.

And he insists that Di Canio is simply driven by a burning desire to win.

O’Shea said of the Italian: “I don’t know about having a ­hairdryer, when the gaffer has a go it’s more like a flamethrower!

“He wants to improve us as a team and himself as a manager — and he wants to do it now.

“It’s obvious he wants to go right to the top. Like all good managers, he isn’t afraid to let rip when he needs to.

“But he’s a great bloke to work for. He expects nothing less than 100 per cent and, if you give him that, he gives you everything back in return.

“In a way he is easy to please. He wants everyone working as hard as they can and if he gets that he has a smile on his face.

“He’s got high standards and expects the same from ­everyone around him. If he doesn’t get that, then he lets you know.

“But the best managers are like that. They don’t accept ­second best.

“His enthusiasm is infectious and he does like to have a laugh and a joke — but only when the time is right. Believe me, he is relentless when it comes to ­getting his ideas across.”

Di Canio guided the Black Cats away from the relegation zone when he succeeded O’Neill.

Since then he has gone about restructuring the squad in a bid to ensure that next season doesn’t descend into another winter of discontent.

There have been encouraging signs during the Premier League Asia Trophy in Hong Kong that the players are responding to his methods.

O’Shea said: “We are coming along nicely as a squad.

“Positive signs are there. (Emanuele) Giaccherini looks a real talent, even though he isn’t fully fit yet, Cabral looks like he can be a top player in the Premier League and, with Wes Brown coming back after injury, that’s like signing a new player.

“There was a lot of ­upheaval last season and at times we were making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

“But it feels more settled now, even with all the new players that have come in over the summer, and there’s a great spirit around the place.

“The manager has said it’s been like a revolution since he came in, and in many ways that’s a good way to ­describe it.

“But it is going to take time for him to really put his ideas into place and get us playing how he wants every week.

“It’s all about taking small steps, baby steps if you like, to get where we want to be.

“Last season wasn’t an ­enjoyable experience.

“It was scary when we started to get dragged down towards the bottom, and there was a lot of relief around the place when we were safe.

“The manager has said that he doesn’t want next season to be a struggle.

“He wants us looking up ­rather than over our shoulders.

“He will want to have us ­pushing up towards mid-table and beyond.

“It’s not in his nature to be happy just treading water to survive.”

* SUNDERLAND have turned to Mexican international Jorge Torres Nilo in their search for a left-back, writes Clive Hetherington.

Torres Nilo, 25, is valued at £5million by his Mexican club, Tigres, and has won 34 caps.

The Black Cats have been frustrated in their pursuit of Argentina's Lucas Orban, 24, of Buenos Aires side Tigre, and missed out on Le Havre's French kid Benjamin Mendy, 19, who joined Marseille.

Sunderland's drawn-out £2.5m deal for Panathinaikos' Greece winger Charias Mavrias, 19, could be completed next week.

Toon backlash over Phil Bardsley move

NEWCASTLE UNITED'S unpopular new director of football Joe Kinnear is unlikely to endear himself to a fed-up Toon army with a move for Sunderland's unwanted defender Phil Bardsley.

The former Manchester United player, 28, has been told he is not in Stadium of Light boss Paolo Di Canio's plans.

Now it's believed Kinnear has made enquires about bringing Bardsley to St James' Park.

Fulham and Blackburn Rovers are also interested in the full-back, who was named Sunderland's player of the year the season before last.

Newcastle fans urging the club to do some transfer business - so far not a single player has been signed - won't be amused by a cut-price move for a player discarded by their bitter local rivals.

Newcastle is yet to sign a single player
But they will be encouraged by a likely breakthrough in Newcastle's attempts to bring in at least one striker.

The club hopes to bring in Lyon's £8.6million Bafetimbi Gomis after lengthy talks between the clubs.

Newcastle are still keen on Aston Villa's Darren Bent - an ex-Sunderland player.

BBC Newcastle extends Sunderland AFC deal

BBC Newcastle will provide radio commentary on all Sunderland AFC matches, home and away, till 2017 after a new deal was signed.

Commentary duo Nick Barnes and former Sunderland star Gary Bennett will continue to provide coverage, after recently celebrating their tenth consecutive season of Sunderland match commentary at the start of the 2012-13 Barclays Premier League season.

BBC Newcastle Managing Editor, Andrew Robson told RadioToday: “The commentary is immensely popular with our listeners and I know Nick Barnes and Gary Bennett are both looking forward to another exciting season following Sunderland and ensuring that fans who can’t make it to games don’t miss a kick.”

Nick Barnes said: “It’s an absolute privilege to be at every Sunderland game and I’m sure this season will be a hugely exciting one to commentate on!”

Sunderland AFC’s Commercial Director, Gary Hutchinson, said: “The club has enjoyed a fantastic partnership with BBC Newcastle over the years and we are delighted that they have committed to the club on a long-term basis.

“They provide a first-class service to Sunderland fans as our official commentary partner and have demonstrated their on-going support and commitment to Sunderland, something which we hugely appreciate.”

Cattermole set for showdown talks with
Di Canio after Sunderland boss strips captain of squad number

Sunderland captain Lee Cattermole will have showdown talks with manager Paolo Di Canio this week.

Cattermole, who has a heel injury, was left out of the squad which travelled to Hong Kong and his number 6 squad number has gone to new signing Cabral.

Fulham and Hull are monitoring Cattermole’s situation.

Sunderland, meanwhile, have have made an enquiry for Besiktas midfielder Manuel Fernandes, 27, formerly of Everton and Portsmouth.

Di Canio has challenged Brown to show he can resurrect his career after he missed all of last season with a knee ligament injury suffered during the Peace Cup in South Korea.

Former Manchester United defender Brown took a big step on the comeback trail by completing both Asia Trophy games in Hong Kong despite the heavy pitch.

And he believes the number of serious injuries he has had in his career has strengthened his resolve to fight back to full fitness all over again.

Brown said: “A few people have asked me if I was worried if I would be able come back this time. It sounds weird but, no, I never thought that.

“I always had confidence in myself. It just took a lot longer than I first expected. I have had injuries throughout my career so I never doubted I could come back again.

“I have done my cruciates in both knees, had a broken foot, a broken ankle, and lots of little niggles in between. It sounds strange but at some point I have always been able to come back. Mentally, I don’t seem to struggle with it. I just get my focus right and get it done.

“I never have a negative thought and that’s one of the main things.

“It’s no fun working on rehab in the gym. It’s the worst thing ever. It can be depressing but you have to be determined, get on with it and not moan about it.”

wes brown, sunderland, comeback, paolo di canio, star, injury, nightmareBrown shows his strength against Tottenham's Clint Dempsey at the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong

It sounds strange but at some point I have always been able to come back. Mentally, I don’t seem to struggle with it. I just get my focus right and get it done
Wes Brown
Brown, at 33 the oldest player in the team, knows Di Canio is looking to him and another former United player, John O’Shea, to set a good example to the new and younger players in his re-shaped squad.

“I am the sort of character who would do that anyway,” he said.

“Throughout pre-season I have been pretty fit so it was just a matter of showing a bit of determination and getting back in with the lads.

“I am the oldest in the team so I hope I’ve got a lot of respect from the younger lads. I have been there and done it so the younger ones do look up to me and John for certain things.

“If I can train hard and show them what it’s all about then that’s got to be a good thing.

"The manager works so hard with his methods. He seems to cover everything. Hopefully when the season starts we will be a lot fitter. We feel a lot fitter in general, although the pitch didn’t help.

“It feels good to be back now. I did play one or two reserve games but not for the first team last season. I was never fully fit.”

wes brown, sunderland, comeback, paolo di canio, star, injury, nightmareCraig Gardner has been linked with a move to West Brom

Di Canio admitted after the defeat by Manchester City he had been driving his players hard, but Craig Gardner says that is just the way he likes it.

“It is tough, I admit it,” said the 26-year-old.

“But it is a good tough, because training is hard. If you work hard in life you get a good life. That is what we are doing as far as training is concerned, so hopefully we will go on to have a really good season.”

Gardner has been linked with a move to West Brom as Di Canio’s squad begins to take shape, but the Italian has used him extensively in pre-season, including the final when the versatile player slotted in at full-back.

He proved his worth, too, making two superb goalline clearances, including one where he knew preventing City from scoring would result in him clattering against a post.

“I’m no hero,” Gardner said.

“I am just doing my job. I will take a bruised head to stop a goal. It is what I get paid for.” He is happy enough though, even if his more usual, and preferred, position is further up the field.

“I just want to play as many matches as I can for the team this season, no matter what position it is,” he said. “I would rather play anywhere than be on the bench.

“I am playing in these pre-season games. I have played four full matches and I am really enjoying it.”

Sunderland, meanwhile, last night confirmed that French midfielder Alfred N’Diaye has joined Turkish club Eskisehirspor on a season-long loan.

But if that £2.5million move fails manager Neil Lennon is expected to turn his attention to Porto winger Christian Atsu.

Both players were being linked with the Hoops last night as Lennon missed Celtic’ 2-1 home defeat against Borussia Moenchengladbach to watch his club’s Euro opponents draw 1-1 with Atvidaberg.

But transfer talk dominated the Parkhead scene with rumours even suggesting a fee had been agreed for 24-year-old McClean with the Stadium of Light club.

That hasn’t happened, and was officially denied, but Lennon is anxious to get a new face in and McClean fits the bill.

He is a controversial figure on Wearside but his ability is unquestioned and the Derry-born winger would walk to Glasgow to sign for the Hoops.

But there is speculation, too, about Atsu.

The 21-year-old has 16 caps for Ghana already and is making a name for himself in Portugal.

Coach Garry Parker, in charge in Lennon’s absence, wouldn’t confirm or deny any speculation but said: “We have options. I’m not saying who they are but we have our sights set on a few.

“We could probably do with two or three more. That would be good.”

Parker was happy to report a clean bill of health for Celtic ahead of the clash with Elfsborg.

Recent crocks Charlie Mulgrew, Joe Ledley and Adam Matthews all got valuable game time against the Germans.

We could probably do with two or three more. That would be good
Coach Garry Parker
Parker added: “They needed that although I don’t know it if will be enough for them.

“Maybe Wednesday is still too soon but at least we’ve got them back and we’re in good shape for the European tie.

“It was a good workout against a very good team with the young side we had out and you learn from games like this.

“Callum McGregor gave the ball away and was punished for their first goal, so you learn you can’t give the ball away against strong opposition.”

Anthony Stokes scored Celtic’s goal with a fine free-kick after Granit Xhaka and substitute Branimir Hrgota had put the impressive Germans in the driving seat.

Parker said: “With Gary Hooper gone it’s up to the likes of Anthony to stake his claim and that was a good goal.”

Stokes  revealed he still hasn’t signed a new contract.

But he said: “I’m not too bothered about that because I’m concentrating on the big games we have.

“But I was happy with the goal and as a striker it’s always nice to score.

“The whole team, though, has to take on extra responsibility now Gary’s gone.

“We all have to chip in and when you look at the side we have midfield men like Kris Commons and Joe Ledley who can get 15 goals a season as well.

“Now, though, it’s about the Champions League again. Elfsborg will be a step up from Cliftonville but we fancy our chances.”

Earlier this month, reports came out that Sunderland's very own Mr. Reliable, the flame haired star child Jack Colback, had let us all down by rejecting a contract extension, and pushing for a exit from the Stadium of Light. It was something of a surprise, especially after Di Canio had marked him out as a crucial player: a 'pitbull' that would be a vital part of his plans for transforming the club.

Of course, it's easy to understand why Colback might want to leave. The club have never really found a clear role for the 23-year old during his time in the first team picture. Instead he's been forced to move between positions according to need, spending most of last season as a makeshift left-back, rather than in his 'natural' centre midfield placing. It isn't hard to imagine Colback is incredibly frustrated by the Darren Williams-esque role he has at the club currently, and seeks to move to a club who will find a role beyond that of a utility man.

Sadly for Colback, this versatility is a major attribute, and one of the reasons the club should be fighting to keep him. However he does more than just 'fill in'. In fact it's hard to think of another player who will take to the pitch with such commitment and consistency regardless of the position they play. Left back, right back, left wing, in the middle: Colback is equally solid in all of them and, ignoring any frustrations he may have by the way he's used by the club, the England youth international plays with an enthusiasm that is unmatched on the pitch, wherever he is forced to play. At a time when Sunderland are buying a lot of players untested at Premier League level, there's something comforting about having Colback, someone you can rely on to produce consistent performances.

Despite the busy transfer window Sunderland have had this summer, the squad is still a small one, lacking in key positions. Even if the club, as you imagine it would, sign the two full backs and centre midfielder it needs, it's would be a huge advantage to have a player of Colback's quality, who is capable of covering a number of area effectively. His impressive performances so far during pre-season, where he's looked quicker and stronger than at any other point in his career, has eased the burden that the club has in finding a left back somewhat.

Colback's versatility is incredibly useful, and he can use it to offer options that the club arguably doesn't have elsewhere. Defensively, the Killingworth born Academy product has proved just how effective he can be at neutralising the threat of wingers and marauding full backs. We saw this during the one game he played at right back; the 1-0 victory at home to Everton, where he kept Leighton Baines out of the game. In the recent pre-season games against Tottenham and Manchester City, he similarly managed Kyle Walker and Pablo Zabaleta effectively. While it's true that Colback is unlikely to gallop down the left wing as Di Canio appears to want from his full backs, he can give the team another option, when a particular threat down the wing needs to be marked out of the game.

He's also a perfect player to throw on from the bench if the side need to hold on for a win. Colback has often been criticised by fans for being too slow in possession; for holding onto the ball or producing 'sideways passes' when the team needs to attack. But, throw him in the middle of the park, it's this ability to slow the game down and hold onto possession that could come extremely useful when Di Canio's men need to protect a lead.

There's an unfortunate truth that Colback must face. It's that his role as a 'utility man' is perhaps the best bet he has for furthering his career. In his 'natural' centre midfield position, his diminutive stature, combined with his lack of mobility, make it hard for him to to dominate in the middle of the park. In the full back positions he's not the type of player to make long darts forward on the overlap. However as a 'chameleon footballer', who can fit into several roles whenever needed, Colback is a football managers wet dream. If he did move elsewhere, he'd probably find his new club would realise his greatest strength is in his versatility and use him in a similar way Sunderland already do.

Jack Colback may want to find a clear role for himself, but he might find he'll get the best out of his career by staying at Sunderland and playing the unfashionable utility man role. It might well be that Colback needs to stay at the club he's been with since the age of 10, as much as that club needs him to stay.

Transfer news: Stephane Sessegnon happy at Sunderland

Stephane Sessegnon has insisted he is content with life at Sunderland and played down recent reports of a possible move.

Stories emerged earlier this summer that the Black Cats might be prepared to listen to offers for the 29-year-old Benin international, who only signed a new contract in August last year.

But with no formal approaches, Sessegnon seems keen to be part of manager Paolo Di Canio's plans and told the Sunderland Echo: "The speculation is okay, I have no problem with that. But I'm happy at Sunderland.

"The speculation is okay, I have no problem with that. But I'm happy at Sunderland."
Stephane Sessegnon

"We have worked well in pre-season and hopefully we can continue like this. I'm enjoying it at Sunderland and my mind is for Sunderland now."

Sessegnon arrived at the Stadium of Light in a £6m switch from Paris St Germain in January 2011 and has shown in spurts huge potential for such an investment.

However, inconsistency has been a problem and rumours that he could leave the club last summer did little to improve the situation.


But Di Canio's recent shopping spree and a gruelling pre-season have left Sessegnon in optimistic mood ahead of the new campaign.

He added: "It's a very important time, you need to have a pre-season. You need to do the hard work to start the season well.

"I think that affected me during the first few months of last season, but this year is different because we have had a good pre-season with a lot of good players coming.

"That's made everyone work hard in training and we have got a strong mentality too among the players. It looks good already for the start of the season."

Sunderland Edge Ahead of Liverpool In Pursuit Of French International Left-Back

Black Cats enter negotiations with Valencia defender.

Sunderland have stolen the march on Liverpool for the signing of Valencia left back Aly Cissokho, according to the Evening Chronicle.

The Black Cats have entered negotiations for the France international defender as a proposed move to Liverpool begins to stall. After it was revealed that the club would not be re-signing impressive Spurs loanee Danny Rose this summer, manager Paolo Di Canio identified Cissokho as an ideal back-up option, although he would have to deal with the Reds’ interest.

Valencia are understood to consider a bid in the region of £5million, if it were to come in, however, they reportedly have a deal on the table from Liverpool, reports the Daily Mail, who say the Reds have made a season long loan bid for the fullback, which includes a £850,000 loan fee with a view to buy next summer for £3.5million.

Both clubs are in the market for a fullback this summer. Sunderland have already seen a deal to sign impressive Argentine youngster Gino Peruzzi from Velez fall through due to a failed medical, although, the club now say their player is fit and ready. The North-East club have also made an enquiry into signing Brescia defender Fabio Daprela, who already has Premier League experience with West Ham.

Liverpool are looking for competition at left back as Brendan Rodgers looks to strengthen his squad as they mount a Champions League push this season.

Black Cats to travel to Denmark

Sunderland AFC will play the final game of its pre-season preparations in Denmark next week.

Paolo Di Canio’s men travel to Scandinavia to face FC Midtjylland at the MCH Arena in Herning, on Wednesday 7 August, in a 6.00pm kick-off (local time).

Ticket details for the trip to face the Danish Superliga side will be announced shortly.

The Black Cats recently took part in a ten-day training camp in Italy and have just returned from Hong Kong, where they beat Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 to secure a place in the final of the prestigious Barclays Asia Trophy against Manchester City.

The trip to Denmark will see Sunderland play their final friendly game ahead of the start of the 2013-14 Barclays Premier League season, when they kick off their campaign with a home game against Fulham FC, on Saturday 17 August at 3.00pm.
Tickets for the Fulham game at the Stadium of Light are on sale now, priced from £25 for adults and £10 for under 16s.

Season cards for 2013-14 are also available, starting from £425 for adults, £295 for young people under 22 and £320 for over 65s. Junior season cards (children under the age of 16) are priced at just £99 in all concessionary areas of the stadium, with the exception of the special Family Zone package, where there are additional discounts available, with an adult and junior (under 16) package just £450. Additional children can also be added to this package for only £25 each.

All tickets are sold subject to ground regulations.

Youngsters remain unbeaten

Sukar and Nelson on target for youngsters.

Sunderland under-18’s maintained their unbeaten start to pre-season with a 2-2 draw with Hibernian under-20’s in the final leg of their Scottish tour.

Coaches Ged McNamee and Carlton Fairweather made multiple changes to the side that hammered Rangers 4-2 on Sunday to ensure all members of their squad got adequate playing time.

The young Black Cats went 1-0 down before half-time as the older Hibs side cut out lots of the playmaking that had been so effective for the visitors in their win over Rangers.

Changes were made at half-time for Sunderland with Sunday’s two-goal hero, under-16 Andrew Nelson, coming on along with Jordan Blinco, Tom Robson and Michael Ledger.

Nelson’s link-up play was a particular highlight for the youngsters in the second half as he caused lots of problems for the Hibs defence.

The young Black Cats were level soon after the break as Robson got to the by-line and crossed for Jas Sukar to finish from close range.

Chances were a regular occurrence for Sunderland throughout the second period as Robson, Rees Greenwood and Martin Smith all went close.

However, the hosts regained the advantage when they intercepted Peter Burke’s throw and slotted home.

Sunderland were patient in their wait for an equaliser and good play from two under-16’s, Josh Robson and Nelson, opened up space for the latter to smash home from six yards.

Nelson nearly nicked a late winner for the youngsters after a fine solo fun but his strike was well saved.

And Fairweather was pleased with the way the tour ended as the youngsters prepare for their first game of the Barclays U18 Premier League campaign against Chelsea.

“We’re very pleased with the application the boys have shown,” Fairweather said. “We got playing time for everyone which is an added bonus.

“The U16’s that have played have done okay; Josh Robson and Andrew Nelson have equipped themselves very well which bodes well for the future.”

U21 and U18 fixtures confirmed

U21s host Bolton whilst U18s face trip to Chelsea on opening day.

Sunderland’s Academy fixtures have been announced for the coming season as both the development squad and under-18s look to continue their fine progress made during the 2012-13 campaign.

The under-21 side begin their campaign on Monday 12th August with the visit of Bolton Wanderers before they travel to Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on Monday 19th August for a 7pm kick-off.

The Wear-Tyne derby takes place on Monday 3rd February with a 7pm kick-off at the Stadium of Light whilst the young Black Cats finish their season at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

The development squad will be excited by the prospect of trips to Anfield, Villa Park and the Etihad Stadium over the course of the season.

The under-18 side, who went all the way to the semi-finals last season, begin their season on the same day as the first team when they travel to Chelsea for a tricky opening fixture.
The following weekend the Black Cats will host Manchester City at the Academy of Light before a Tyne-Wear derby clash with Newcastle United.

The Wear-Tyne derby will be held on Saturday 11th January before the young Black Cats finish their campaign with a trip to last season’s runners-up Reading.

All fixtures are subject to change.

Take a look at the full fixture list for the under-21 side
http://www.safc.com/fixtures-and-results/under-21s

Take a look at the full fixture list for the under-18 side
http://www.safc.com/fixtures-and-results/under-18s

Hull City Plot £2m Bid for Sunderland Battler Lee Cattermole

Steve Bruce wants to bring tough tackling Black Cat to the KC Stadium.


Premier League new boys Hull City will try to sign axed Sunderland skipper Lee Cattermole in a £2million bid after the midfielder was reportedly told he doesn’t have a future at the Stadium of Light reports the Daily Star.

Black Cats boss Paolo di Canio has frozen out the 25-year-old as he tries to alter the mentality of the squad he inherited from Martin O’Neill and that has alerted former Sunderland boss Steve Bruce who wants a reunion with the tough-tackling midfielder at the KC Stadium.

Di Canio seemingly wants to see Cattermole, who was captain under both Bruce and O’Neill, move on this summer and has taken away his squad number.

Summer signing Cabral instead wore Cattermole’s usual number six shirt in the recent Asia Trophy in Hong Kong amid reports the combative midfielder could now leave during the current transfer window.

The Italian boss has so far declined to reveal if the player still has a future at the club after he missed the pre-season tour of Asia as he continues to recover from a knee injury. But today’s reports claim that the former Swindon manager will accept £2m for Cattermole, who has been booked 34 times and dismissed five times during his four year stay on Wearside.

Cattermole may now follow Black Cats team-mate Danny Graham to East Yorkshire after the former Swansea striker joined the Tigers on a season-long loan deal earlier this month.

And ex-Wigan man could be the next to join Simon Mignolet, Titus Bramble, Matt Kilgallon, Alfred N’Diaye and Ahmed Elmohamady in leaving this summer as Di Canio’s radical overhaul at the Stadium of Light continues.

Steven Fletcher set to miss Sunderland's big kick-off

Steven Fletcher is likely to be out of action until September as he battles back from ankle surgery

Steven Fletcher is likely to be out of action until September as he battles back from ankle surgery.

And that means Sunderland are unlikely to let Connor Wickham leave before the start of the campaign – despite interest from QPR, Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich.

Fletcher was not included in the Sunderland travelling party that trekked to Hong Kong for the Barclays Asia Trophy as he continues his rehabilitation from an ankle injury and initially feared that he may not be in contention until towards the end of September. There are now hopes that he will be back before then, but The Journal understands the Black Cats are likely to have to start the season without him, and that has knock-on effects for their striker options.

Di Canio confirmed in Hong Kong that he did not want to sign another striker and will start the season, with Jozy Altidore as the main target man. But with Ji Dong-Won likely to be sold, he intends to retain Wickham to give him options in the striking department.

It also means that Stephane Sessegnon, who was impressive in spells in Hong Kong, is more likely to stay at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats will listen to offers for the Benin striker but there has been no more than tentative interest in him so far.

The Sunderland boss is keen to integrate Fletcher into his preferred system and has seen plenty about the former Wolves man that he likes. But the serious injury sustained on international duty has prevented Di Canio from working with the forward.

There has not been a setback in his comeback plans, but he was left out of Scotland’s squad to face England recently, which was an indication that he is still some way from being available for first-team action. Sunderland continue to re-mould their squad and yesterday allowed Alfred N’Diaye to leave on a season-long loan to Turkish top-flight side Eskisehirspor.

It is understood a fee has been agreed for the midfielder if the move works out, but either way, it appears N’Diaye’s short Sunderland career is over.

The club were linked with Portuguese midfielder Manuel Fernandes  – who is in the final year of his contract with Besiktas – and are looking for more of a creative presence in the engine room.

N’Diaye struggled to make an impression after moving to Sunderland in January and, while he won admirers for his effort, Di Canio is looking to move the Black Cats up a level next year.

He already has Craig Gardner, Jack Colback and Cabral who can play in the holding midfielder role – while Lee Cattermole could also be deployed there if Di Canio reconsiders his stance on the former Middlesbrough man.

Gardner may also start the season at right-back unless Sunderland manage to sign one of the two full-backs he is looking to recruit.

“I just want to play as many games as I can this season, no matter what position it is,” he said.

“I would rather play anywhere than be on the bench. I am playing in pre-season. I have played four full games and I am enjoying it.

“It (pre-season) is tough, I admit it. But it is a good tough because training is hard. I am a firm believer that the attitude to training should be the same as it is in life generally.

“If you work hard in life you get a good life.

“That is what we are doing as far as training is concerned, so hopefully we will have a good season.”

Bardsley can’t stop Sunderland’s youth from losing

PHIL Bardsley played the first half for Sunderland’s Development Squad in Saturday’s friendly at the Brewery Field but his presence couldn’t prevent Spennymoor Town from running out 3-1 winners in front of a crowd of 441.

Carl Lawson was a 12th minute marksman for Kevin Ball’s side when he beat the offside trap and went on to fire past goalkeeper Peter Jeffries.

Moor’s equaliser came from the penalty spot when Dan Taylor drove home and early in the second period, Mark Davison was left with an easy tap-in following good work by Liam Henderson.

Jason Ainsley’s team just about ended the hopes of the Wearsiders when they were awarded a second spot kick on 66 minutes and this time it was Michael Rae who netted.

Sunderland RCA just edged a Hartlepool XI by the only goal. With 22 minutes on the clock Kyle Morris struck after being set up by the former Durham City player Conor Winter.

There was no shortage of goals for Ryhope CW, who are expected to mount a strong challenge for an immediate return to the Ebac Northern League after being compulsorily relegated to the Wearside League.

Martin Swales’ side maintained their impressive pre-season build up when they thumped Hylton Colliery 6-0 with a brace apiece from James Cook, Phil Hall and Jack Pounder.

Neighbours Silksworth CW also won when they ended 3-1 in front of Coundon Leeholme for whom Ben Collinson cancelled out an early strike from Hargreaves. Stephens and Place were also on target for the Wearsiders.

Chester-le-Street comfortably defeated Harton and Westoe from the Wearside League as the goals flowed from Craig Nichol (2), Anthony Lee and David Surrey.

Durham City had to settle for a 2-2 draw with North Shields, who are unbeaten in seven outings.

Denver Morris headed Adam Furness’ team in front and following Dan Smart’s equaliser, Ricky Fenwick tapped in City’s second goal. With only three minutes left on the clock goalkeeper Rhys Jobling parried a goal-bound drive from Stuart Wright but only into the path of Gareth Bainbridge, who levelled scoring his eighth goal in five games.

Dan Taggart, with a brace, Callum Hope, Matthew Fisher and Cameron Nichol earned Birtley Town an easy victory at Jarrow and two goals from North proved more than sufficient for Seaham Red Star at home to Radcliffe Borough.

Easington Colliery went down to former Wearside League rivals Willington, who were promoted to the ENL at the end of last season. Adam Pinkey (2) and Mark Foster were the scorers.

Hartlepool FC defeated Horden CW on penalties in the East Durham Cup after the sides had finished 1-1. Paul Murphy struck for the Colliers and Jack Nixon restored parity in normal time.

Newcastle 0 Sunderland 9: Free-spending Di Canio leaves Toon fans feeling like the poor relations

It may not be a scoreline either Sunderland or Newcastle supporters realistically envisage. It is however the score in transfers so far this summer.

While Paolo Di Canio has adopted a brave policy for his first transfer window at the Stadium of Light, opposite number Alan Pardew has left his club’s transfer dealings to new director of football Joe Kinnear. And so far the self-proclaimed best in the business has not landed one new addition.

Kinnear couldn’t even manage to persuade his old pal Mick Harford to return to St James’s Park as his number two and, in Harford’s words, assist in player recruitment. If he can’t even sign a retired

No 9 what chance does he have of finding a new one?

Within days of Kinnear’s unexpected arrival, Newcastle lost out to Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund for Pierre–Emerick Aubameyang. Since then Marseille’s Andre-Pierre Gignac appears to have slipped through the net and only this week Kinnear made a final take-it-or-leave-it offer to Lyon for Bafetimbi Gomis.

Lyon want £12million for the France international and Newcastle will go as high as £8m.
Newcastle are now prepared to turn their attention to former Sunderland striker Darren Bent who is surplus to Aston Villa’s needs. Kinnear faces competition from Fulham for the former England international and is under pressure to negotiate this deal to a successful conclusion.

Seeking, and getting, the best deal, particularly in their dealings with French clubs, is classic Mike Ashley and has become a cornerstone of his regime. It works for Sports Direct, and it should work for his football club. If he misses out on a player or two, so be it. But it is frustrating the Toon faithful.

A year after they were criticised for failing to build on their Europa Cup qualification – Vurnon Anita was the only notable signing – Newcastle show no signs of learning their lessons.

The club may perceive that keeping hold of Wonga rebel Papiss Cisse, alleged Manchester United target Yohan Cabaye, homesick captain Fabricio Coloccini and talented Dutch keeper Tim Krul is better than any incoming transfer business. But try selling and telling that to Newcastle fans.

Even ex-players are concerned. Speaking at the launch of his September 11 testimonial game between Newcastle and AC Milan legends, Hull’s new keeper Steve Harper said: 'There seems to be some positive noises about players coming in now. The likes of maybe Remy coming on loan would be a very good signing.

'As a fan, you want to see as many options as possible in a black and white shirt. I know that's what the manager wants, and hopefully he will get that.'

What does not help is the business done down the road at Sunderland where Di Canio, backed by a new Italian scouting network, was busy a month ago bringing in nine players, only one of whom, Altrincham’s Duncan Watmore, is English.

The Sunderland head coach clearly decided months ago his squad needed a major overhaul.

Watmore, Valentin Roberge, Jozy Altidore, Vito Mannone, David Moberg Karlsson, Modibo Diakite, Cabral, El-Hadji Ba and Emanuele Giaccherini are all in Di Canio’s squad now.

Bramble and Matthew Kilgallon were released, Ahmed Elmohamady sold to Hull, and so far Simon Mignolet – at a tidy £7million profit – has left for Liverpool while Sunderland have secured year-long loan deals for Danny Graham and Alfred N’ Diaye, the two permanent signings made by Martin O’Neill in January, at a cost of nearly £8million.

And the exit door is far from closed. Phil Bardsley has had the humiliation of playing with the juniors, and being linked with a move to Newcastle, while captain Lee Cattermole wasn’t even told he no longer had a squad number. His future will be clearer after meeting Di Canio this week, but it is unlikely to be on Wearside.

No member of the Sunderland squad is immune (unless you’re John O’Shea or Adam Johnson it seems) and the likes of Seb Larsson, James McClean, Jack Colback, Craig Gardner, Connor Wickham and even top scorer Steven Fletcher could have new employers within a month.

Signing big and plenty is no guarantee of success, particularly when your manager is as volatile as Di Canio, but by getting his new men in quickly, the Italian coach has at least given them time to get used to his unique methods.

His policy has certainly renewed optimism on Wearside.

Former Newcastle and Ireland defender John Anderson hosts a nightly phone-in for BBC Newcastle. And he has noted a difference between the two sets of fans this summer.

'It is the two extremes,' he said. 'The majority of Newcastle punters are worried about the lack of signings and they would like to see new faces in, and lessons learnt from last year when the failure in the transfer market impacted on the season. Some think we’re in for a relegation fight.

'Sunderland fans are getting a bit carried away, and some are talking about top three or four after the win over Spurs last week. I can’t see that but fair play to them for giving it a go this summer.'