Sunderland manager Gus Poyet insists Duncan Watmore is a required player at the club.
The 20-year old forward is yet to make his Premier League debut for the Black Cats but is in and around the first team and Poyet expects him to be edge his way in soon enough.
Poyet also admits that Championship clubs have enquired about the availability of Watmore but the north east outfit believe he is better suited to remain at the Stadium of Light and further his development.
"We had, I don't know how many clubs call us, but we believe he needs to be here and I think he agrees as well," said Poyet.
"It's important that he plays football at a better level, but, at the same time, he needs to learn what we want.
"He is training with us throughout the international break, where he will learn the things he needs to do week in, week out.
"He's been playing up front for the Under-21s and he's been impressive - a nightmare really for the opposition.
"But he's a great lad and it's so nice to be able to talk to a person like that."
