Sunderland weighing up future of 23-year-old highly-rated Houghton-born midfielder

23-year-old Ethan Robson has spent the first half of the season out on loan at Grimsby Town, but Sunderland have an option to recall him in January.

“I spoke to Ethan on Wednesday, we had a good chat on the phone,” manager Phil Parkinson said.

“I haven’t had a chance to go and see him live yet. We have been watching him, one of the scouts has seen him play and I had a good chat with him.

“I said that we would make a decision closer to January, I don’t want to bring him back if he’s not going to be involved because we want him to play games.

“I’ve spoken to Kevin Ball and other members of the staff several times about him and what he’s got to offer,” he added. “He’s a confident lad and I could tell that from speaking to him.

“He’s enjoyed his time playing at Grimsby and he’s eager to come and play a part at his hometown club. We’ll make that decision closer to the time.”

In other League One news, Sol Campbell has launched a furious tirade at his Southend United players after they lost 2-0 to Bristol Rovers.

He said: "For some reason, we don't want to get in position, we don't want to go where it hurts, we don't want to keep on running. I can understand it after 80 minutes but not just after half-time. I'm not having it.”