James McFadden hopes to earn a deal at Sunderland.

The Daily Star says O'Neill has handed McFadden a chance to kick-start his career at Sunderland.

The 29-year-old free agent hopes to earn a short-term deal after being invited to train with the Black Cats.

The Scotland midfielder has been without a club since his release this summer by Everton.

The former Motherwell favourite turned down a chance to return to Fir Park and an offer to join Aberdeen in the hope of staying in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Sunderland's Titus Bramble is sweating on a new contract offer.