El Hadji Diouf is set to stay with Sunderland.

The Guardian says Blackburn Rovers have failed to persuade Sunderland to sell Diouf, who is back in favour at the Stadium of Light under the new manager, Ricky Sbragia.

A Rovers approach has been rejected after a meeting between Diouf and Sbragia this week. Diouf has been told by Sbragia that he is an important part of his plans.