Phil Parkinson gives update on his January plans for Sunderland youngsters Bali Mumba and Benji Kimpioka

The 18-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance under the new Black Cats boss, but has trained with the first-team group.

Parkinson has kept a keen eye on his progress in U23 matches throughout the campaign.

Before his arrival the plan had been to keep him in the U23 set-up, something he had little experience of after being fastracked last season.

Sunderland were also eager for him to focus on establishing himself in one position. He has played the vast majority of his youth football at right-back and right wing-back so far this season.

Jack Ross planned to review the situation this month, to establish what the best path for his progression was.

Parkinson is minded to keep him on Wearside for the time being.

The Black Cats boss is keen to secure a loan move for Benji Kimpioka, though as of yet no deal has been agreed.

“Bali is still a young lad, really,” Parkinson said.

“He got progressed quickly into the first-team scene and rightly so because he is a talent.

“He’s a player who, at the moment, we will probably keep around.

“Is he ready and do we want to push him into a National League scenario? Probably not.

“Benji is that bit older and probably more ready to go and test himself.”

The U23s brought a long winless run to an end earlier this week, beating Huddersfield Town in the Premier League Cup.

Elliot Dickman’s side had gone behind but a late goal from Cole Kiernan saw them take the win in front of Parkinson.

“I’d like to mention the U23s, I was delighted they got a win the other night,” he said.

“It was great for the morale of the group, they were all so pleased.

“It’s been a tough run so that lifts the training ground when those lads come back in.

“Benji is out there showcasing his talents in those games and there’ll be managers watching him, as there was the other night.”