BLACK CATS WANT WALTERS
JACK ROSS wants to make Jonathan Walters his first signing as Sunderland boss. The Republic of Ireland striker is surplus to requirements at Burnley after getting just 95 minutes of first-team action last season, following a £3million move from Stoke. He is now recovered from the knee problem that had blighted what looks certain to be his only campaign with the Clarets, but has been told by Turf Moor chief Sean Dyche that he can go.
Walters still has a year left on his contract with the East Lancashire outfit, who are seeking a £2m fee.
But that won’t put off Ross, who believes Walters can spearhead the relegated Black Cats’ bid to make a first-time return to the Championship.
Walters, currently away on international duty, admitted: ”I have been fit for a while, but not been picked and that’s been frustrating. I guess I can’t moan too much because the team kept on doing ever so well, but I have spoken to the manager and I’m available to go, if needs be.”
The Irishman played in the 2-0 defeat by France four days ago, and is set to start in tomorrow’s friendly against the USA in Dublin.
Walters added: ”I’ll assess it all and see what’s out there when my international commitments are over.”