Sanderson to see out rest of season on Wearside, says Johnson

LEE Johnson is confident on-loan Wolves defender Dion Sanderson will stay at Sunderland for the remainder of the season.

Sanderson signed a season-long deal with the Wearsiders, although it included a break clause this month in case Wolves wanted to recall him for any reason.

Head coach Johnson wants Sanderson to stay but admitted last week Wolves were ‘frustrated’ at Sanderson’s lack of gametime in the first half of the season.

He said he had spoken to the Midlands club about the situation soon after he took charge in early December, since when the 21-year-old has played more regularly.

While the date before which Wolves can recall Sanderson has not yet passed, Johnson believes the player and his parent club are happy, which means he is likely to be allowed to stay. “No, I don’t think the recall date has passed – or not as far as I am aware,” said Johnson, whose side takes on Plymouth Argyle at the Stadium of Light tonight.

“Dion is happy, we are happy and Wolves are happy, and while you have three happy parties I don’t see a problem.

“Everyone has bought into Dion’s development in the right way and I think he has done well and has a lot of potential. Heis part of our squad and ready to go whenever we need him.”

Sunderland have brought in midfielder Carl Winchester this month and are still looking to strengthen their squad before the January transfer window closes.

The Black Cats have expressed interest in a number of players but Johnson revealed no new signings were imminent.