City rule themselves out of Wyke running
Bristol City have ruled themselves out of the running to sign Charlie Wyke.
The striker has been in fine formseasonandnetted31goals in all competitions as Sunderland won the Papa John’s Trophy but lost out in the League One play-offs.
The 28-year-old Teessidebornattackerhasbeenoffered a new deal at the Stadium of Light,withhispresentcontract set to expire this summer.
It has been widely reported that Wyke is the subject of interest from a number of Championship clubs – includingMiddlesbroughandBristol City. However, reports in Bristol claim the Championship club will not pursuing the Cats striker despite previous talk suggesting otherwise.
Scottish giants Celtic and Russian outfit CSKA Moscow arealsosaidtobekeenonWyke but Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson has repeatedly reiterated his desire to keep Wyke on Wearside.
Meanwhile, Kevin Phillips has delivered his verdict on Sunderland’s retained list.
The Black Cats’ rebuild began with the announcement earlier that seven players would be released when their contracts expire this summer. Among the departures were midfielder Josh Scowen and captain Max Power.
Speaking to Football Insider, however, Phillips admitted his surprise at the club’s decision to part with the duo.
“He’s done well so I am a little bit surprised,” he said of Scowen. “Maybe the player has made it clear he wants to leave, you don’t know, but I’m surprisedtheyhaven’tdecided to maybe offer him something because I thought he’s done well in the middle of the park. Power as well, he’s a leader and you need that experience in League One.”