‘I think if he came to Sunderland, he'd embrace playing for them...’

Stephen Elliott has stated that Sunderland and Troy Parrott could be a good fit.

The Republic of Ireland international striker impressed whilst out on loan at MK Dons last season, scoring 10 goals in 47 across all competitions.

The 20-year-old former Ipswich Town and Millwall loanee is highly rated by Tottenham Hotspur, who are said to be keen to loan the striker out again next season.

And former Sunderland player Elliott reckons Parrott joining the Black Cats could be a smart move by both parties.

"He's had that full season at League One and I think he's a better player now than League One," he told the RTÉ Soccer Podcast.

"I know people say he didn't score loads of goals in League One but the way he plays, he was always involved in goals and he started to score a few more towards the end of the season - some really good goals.

"But for him to keep improving, he needs to move himself up a level. I think somewhere like Sunderland - they need a couple of strikers. They've got Ross Stewart there at the moment but he could do with a little help in there.

"I think if Troy Parrott came to Sunderland, I think he'd embrace playing for a club like that with the big crowds, the atmosphere at the games and that feeling of doing well there and thriving there.”

*Sunderland have confirmed that Michael Spellman has joined the club on a one-year deal after impressing whilst on trial.

The 19-year-old will join Michael Proctor’s Under-23 side next season and the winger has revealed his delight at signing for the Black Cats.

“I’m delighted to sign for the club and can’t wait for the season coming up,” Spellman said.

“It feels like a weight lifted off my shoulders to get the deal done after playing here on trial before the summer, and I feel I can bring hard work, desire and hopefully create and score goals.

“The pre-season trip to Canada will be a great experience and I feel that it’s important to play in different areas and expand your game.”

Spellman’s move to Sunderland will be completed following all the regulatory processes.