Sunderland are on the verge of securing the services of James McFadden.
The 29-year old Scottish forward has been training with the Black Cats recently with manager Martin O'Neill confirming the former Everton and Birmingham City man will pen a short-term deal.
"It will be a short-term contract that suits all parties," said O'Neill of the free agent.
"That gives him the opportunity to get fit, join the squad and then try to get into the team.
"The idea of signing him is that he can show what he thinks he's capable of doing.
"We'll have to see if it's the James McFadden of old and if it is, that will benefit us."
