Embleton extends Mariners loan spell

Sunderland have decided to extend Elliot Embleton’s loan spell at Grimsby Town until the end of the season.

The midfielder had been on loan at the League Two club until January, but after impressing in the first half of the campaign, will now stay at Blundell Park.

Sunderland boss Jack Ross had admitted he faced a tough decision over Embleton, who is out of contract in the summer.

“I have been pleased with how he has done on his loan spell, he couldn’t have done any more in terms of why we put him out on loan and what he could get from it,” Ross said.

“That makes what we do with him next that bit more challenging because he has done so well.

“If he had gone there and hadn’t played regularly, the decision would be easier.”

However, with the 19-yearold down the pecking order at the Stadium of Light, where Sunderland are well stocked for midfielders, the Black Cats have decided his career will be best progressed by getting more first team experience.

The loanee has made 20 appearances in all competitions since joining Grimsby, scoring on four occasions including the FA Cup First Round win over MK Dons in November.

Embleton will be available to play in the Mariners’ Third Round tie on Saturday, when they make the trip to Selhurst Park to take on Premier League side Crystal Palace.