The attacking midfielder, who has been a supporter of the Black Cats since childhood, left Peterborough United following the expiration of his contract this summer.

A half-season loan spell at Hull City failed to result in a permanent move and Maddison is now searching for a new club ahead of the 2020/21 season.

The 26-year-old has frequently been linked with Sunderland since their relegation to League One, but it remains to be seen whether Maddison is a genuine target for Phil Parkinson this summer.

Sunderland fan Marcus Maddison has opened up on his search for a new club

But the former Gateshead man had fans of the Black Cats talking over the weekend as he opened up on waiting for a call over his next move. The update came after Maddison played for non-league side Peterborough Sports in a bid to top-up his fitness during pre-season. The Turbines currently play in the third tier of non-league – the equivalent to a side such as South Shields in the North East.

And in an update posted on Instagram after the game, Maddison revealed how the off-season period has been ‘hell’ for him – as he awaits news of any interested clubs.

He said: “Stay humble. Focus on what you can affect in the here & now, don’t get bogged down in what isn’t going right for you & try focus on the positives.

"This past month has been hell for me waiting on a phone call that never comes but I try stay positive & in shape so when I return im the best I can be.”

Sunderland remain keen on adding a number of new players to their squad this summer, with Parkinson targeting a further five additions to his ranks.

Bailey Wright and Aiden O’Brien have already arrived at the Academy of Light, while the Black Cats are also eyeing deals for Luke Garbutt and Scott Fraser.

Danny Graham and Remi Matthews have also been linked with a move to Wearside.

What Marcus Maddison has said about his future as Sunderland links fail to fade