The ex-Sunderland & Newcastle United free agents most clubs could still sign – including players linked with the North East duo
By Liam Kennedy
Published 20th Sep 2019, 12:12 BST
Updated 20th Sep 2019, 13:34 BST
This summer, more than any other, football seems to be awash with players still looking for clubs.
The 25-man Premier League squads have no doubt had an impact on this figure, while financial caution in the divisions below has seen many lower clubs baulk at wage demands of players who'd normally filter down the divisions.
As a result, a whole host of players continue to work alone, without a club and the season well under way.
Here we take a look at 21 players who've either played for Newcastle United or Sunderland or have been linked with either of our North East clubs.
Here we take a look at 21 players who've either played for Newcastle United or Sunderland or have been linked with either of our North East clubs.
9. Gary Hooper - Linked to NUFC & SAFC
A striker who scored goals for fun in Scotland with Celtic - and this saw him linked with both of our clubs, as well as a huge chunk of the Premier League and Championship. Released by Sheffield Wednesday in the summer. Photo: Nathan Stirk
Centre-half who was excellent for Sunderland in his one-year at the club. Played a crucial role in a 3-0 derby win at St James's Park. Photo: Christopher Lee
United were linked with the former Spurs midfielder on numerous occasions in Rafa Benitez's time at the club. He is now a free agent. Photo: Stuart Franklin