Keeper Kieren Westwood is determined to establish himself as the No 1 for both Sunderland and the Republic of Ireland next season. The 28-year-old had suggested he may have to leave the Stadium of Light to find that regular starting place, but may find himself with another chance should Simon Mignolet complete his expected move to Liverpool.

"I love it at Sunderland, but if I'm not going to play... It's a tough decision, but I need to play football, I think that's evident in itself," he said.

"A lot of stuff can happen over the off-season. Basically, I just want to play football.

"I'm looking forward to the future, if I'm honest. It's been a frustrating 12 months or so, so I'm looking to come out of the dark times and into some good ones."