Sunderland AFC news and transfer rumours: Cats, Peterborough and Barnsley tracking attacker plus Accrington Stanley man eyes upset

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We round up some of the latest Black Cats news stories ahead of Saturday’s match.

Cats linked with attacker

Sunderland are one of several sides who have been linked with Morecambe attacker Carlos Mendes Gomes.

The 22-year-old winger has scored 15 goals in League Two this season, with The Shrimps sitting fourth in the table.

According to Football League World, several clubs, including Sunderland, Cardiff, Peterborough and Barnsley, are keeping an eye on the wideman.

Fond memories for Accrington striker

Accrington Stanley striker Paul Smyth has fond memories of facing Sunderland and is looking forward to returning to the Stadium of Light.

Smyth, 23, put Accrington 2-0 up against the Black Cats in 2019, before the hosts came back to draw 2-2.

“I said last time it was one of the best experiences I’ve had, especially watching Sunderland as a kid,” Smyth told Accrington’s website.

“They were one of the biggest teams in the Premier League at the time, fan base-wise and it was just brilliant to score and set up a penalty.

“They came back and showed their quality and their class to make it 2-2. I have very fond memories of that place and hopefully we get more on Saturday.”

Aidan O’Brien can step up says Phillips

Finally, Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips says Aidan O’Brien can step up if Aiden McGeady is unavailable for the Black Cats.

McGeady missed the side’s 2-2 draw with Hull because of a foot injury and is 50/50 for this weekend’s game against Accrington Stanley.

If McGeady does miss the match, it could provide an opportunity for O’Brien or Chris Maguire.

Phillips told Football Insider: “Lee Johnson could say to Maguire: ‘Here’s your opportunity, go and take it.’

“He can certainly play, so why not? But then again, it might not be him, it might be someone else.

“Aidan O’Brien will probably come into the side. It could be any of those players. It’s all an opportunity for someone to come in.”

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