Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill doesn't want to lose midfielder Craig Gardner.

The Daily Mail says O'Neill aims to persuade homesick Gardner to stay at Sunderland until the end of the season at least, but has ruled out a return for Asamoah Gyan.

Former Birmingham midfielder Gardner, top scorer for City last season, has struggled to make an impact and was linked with moves to West Bromwich and Wolves last week.