Exclusive: How a former Sunderland midfielder wants to help send Premier League talent on loan to Wearside

Roy, who played for the Black Cats during the 1999/2000 season, was appointed Sporting Director at Vicarage Road in December.

And speaking exclusively to the Echo, he says he would be happy to facilitate sending loan players to the Stadium of Light in the future.

Indeed, Roy is also hopeful that he could one day return to Wearside in a coaching capacity - having forged a strong career in the game since retiring.

“If they have any interest in taking some players on loan, I’m open to work with the club,” said Roy, when quizzed on working with Sunderland in the future.

“The only thing I regret with Sunderland is that I came to the club too late.

“When I signed for the club I was already 32. I arrived from Marseille and I was vice-captain at the club. To have an experience in England, it was difficult to refuse.

I had one year in England and I’m sure if I came two or three years before I would have had a very good career in England. I really enjoyed the club and people.

I’m still in football as a manager and a sporting director, now I’m in charge at Watford.”

“You never know,” he continued, when pressed more on a return to the Stadium of Light.

“Maybe one day [laughs]. If one day they call me, I will be very pleased to help the club. I predict nothing.”