Sunderland attacker Duncan Watmore has sung the praise of Ged McNamee.

Sunderland announced the academy director was stepping down after two decades in the role.

The ex-Hartlepool United player not only played a key role in signing Watmore, from Altrincham, he brought through talents like the two Jordans, Pickford and Henderson.

“Yes, he was fantastic with me," he told the Sunderland Echo. “All the Sunderland academy and that side of things were fantastic, they have a great group of guys.

“I had a very good relationship with Ged and he was very instrumental in bringing me to the club so I am very grateful for that."