Sunderland have been boosted with news they can get to work on a new pitch.

Sunderland have at last won planning permission for an indoor pitch at the Academy of Light, which will eventually end their winter training problems.

Steve Bruce said: "It is about time. We planned for one years ago, but only now get permission. We always get the snow here like today. I am frost-bitten after walking the dogs around the training ground! If it snows and ices up this year for long periods we'll move to Lilleshall or somewhere."