Football League interest in Sunderland midfielder with Carlisle United and Forest Green Rovers circling

As revealed by the Echo last week, Neil is one fringe player who could be allowed out on loan in order to bolster his development in the short term, with his long term future very much on Wearside.

Johnson said: “It's the ones like Dan Neil who you look at, who I really like, but you look at his chances which might be limited between now and the end of the season and that becomes a possibility.

"Only for our long-term future, and his, because he's a player I like."

It is understood there is strong interest from several EFL clubs in the 19-year-old midfielder this month.

Meanwhile, Carlisle United and Forest Green Rovers have also been credited with a strong interest by Football Insider.

Neil is well regarded at Sunderland having come up through the youth system.

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 SAFC 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