Sunderland defender set for loan move after Viking trial

The defender, who is out of contract at the Stadium of Light in the summer, joined Viking for training this week and could seal a loan move before the weekend.

Speaking told RA Dagsavisen that he was impressed with the facilities at Viking and was keen to make a good impression after hearing they were interested in him.

Ledger said: "This was better than I expected.

"The stadium was great - not unlike Sunderland - and all the facilities look great. This looks very good.

"I heard about the interest a week ago and was never in any doubt about what I wanted.

"Here I have the chance to play first-team football. I think a loan can be a very good idea.

"The agreement with Sunderland runs out this summer but Sunderland is my club and I'd rather be, but I'm keeping all options open.

"You never know in football and it's nice to have choices," added Ledger, who has been part of the Sunderland youth set-up since the age of eight.

He featured in all four Checkatrade Trophy games this season, playing against Rochdale, Hartlepool United, Notts County and Wolves for the Under-23 side.

Viking manager Ian Burchnall has been impressed with what he has seen after watching video footage of Ledger in action for Sunderland Under-23s this season.

He said: "From what I have seen he is strong in the air.

"He has been with Sunderland since he was eight years-old and has got a good football education.

"It’s always hard to judge someone on a training session, but we did definitely see some glimpses of what he can do.

"He is good with the ball and talks a lot – although it’s not easy when you do not know the names of the others."

Ledger's chances of a first team spot at Sunderland have been restricted further with the arrival of Joleon Lescott, with manager David Moyes now willing to let him leave on loan in order to get first team football.