Could ex-Sunderland man Jordan Pickford be sold by Everton to raise funds for Rafa Bentitez?

Sunderland are considering recalling Jack Diamond and Josh Hawkes in January.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The Black Cats are currently in the midst of an injury crisis with head coach Lee Johnson forced to name several youth players on the bench against Oxford United, including 17-year-old Zac Johnson.

The Wearsiders are currently without Luke O’Nien, Corry Evans, Jordan Willis, Dennis Cirkin, Niall Huggins, Denver Hume and Aiden McGeady.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

That has forced the head coach into a tactical re-think over the past couple of months with Sunderland now deploying a five-at-the-back system.

Jordan PickfordJordan Pickford
Jordan Pickford

Both Hawkes and Diamond departed the Stadium of Light last summer on loan deals to League Two clubs.

Hawkes linked up with Tranmere Rovers whilst Diamond re-joined Harrogate Town.

But it is understood that Sunderland are considering calling the duo back in January with the first team so short on numers.

Lee Johnson recently commented on the situation.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We’re in a good position to go and strengthen again in January, and that doesn’t necessarily mean throwing fortunes at it.

“It can mean manipulating your current squad or bringing back players who are out on loan like Jack Diamond or Josh Hawkes, who have been doing extremely well. We’ve got a lot of options.”

Jordan Pickford to Tottenham reports

Everton are said to be keen on selling former Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to raise funds for Rafa Benitez

The 27-year-old is the club’s biggest asset but they price him at around £30million and is also on about £100,000-a-week wages.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Pickford’s contract runs until 2024 but Tottenham are said to be considering a deal for the England star.

Pickford arrived at Goodison Park in the summer of 2017 for a fee of £25million rising to £30million in add-ons after Sunderland’s relegation.

Danny Graham back to Carlisle United?

Manager Keith Millen has poured cold water on Danny Graham making a return to Carlisle United

“He’s been mentioned,” Millen told the News & Star.

“I know Danny. I don’t know how old he is now – he certainly ain’t as old as me! – and he’s been mentioned, but he’s not in a position or place where he would come in and have an impact.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We look at every name that’s mentioned. Of course, we do. We’re doing loads of work behind the scenes.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor