Sunderland AFC news: Ex-Cats 'target' available on a free, rival boss makes Charlie Wyke claim, rivals conclude contract deal

The Black Cats won 2-0 against Accrington Stanley at the Wham Stadium and face promotion-chasing Lincoln City at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Lee Johnson’s men will be aiming to make it 11 unbeaten in all competitions.

Indeed, Wednesday night’s win meant that the Black Cats have lost just once in their last 16 fixtures.

As usual, however, there is still plenty of Sunderland talk and general League One gossip swirling around the web.

Here, we take you through the latest in our daily evening news round-up:

Former Sunderland ‘target’ set to leave on a free

Scott Tanser is set to leave St Johnstone when his contract expires at the end of the season.

That’s according to manager Callum Davidson who has admitted as such to Herald Scotland.

Reports in January suggested Sunderland had made an approach for the 26-year-old who ex-Port Vale and Rochdale left-back.

However, the Black Cats ended up with Southampton loanee Jake Vokins.

“I think so,” Davidson said when asked if Tanser would leave. “It’s looking less and less likely in our favour.

“We’ve tried our best to keep him but at the moment he’s not given us any positive signs that he wants to stay. These things can change quickly, though.”

Sunderland’s League One rivals conclude contract deal

MK Dons captain Dean Lewington has signed a new contract.

The fresh terms mean the defender will soon enter his 18th season at the club.

Incredibly, the 36-year-old is in line to make his 800th appearance for the Dons should he be selected for this Saturday’s League One match away at Burton Albion.

On his new deal, Lewington told MK Dons’ website: “It’s been a successful season for me, personally, with the number of appearances I’ve made and the way I’m feeling so I’m very happy to be able to continue doing it.

“It’s been a real joy playing for Russ and Luke for the last 18 months. We have a really strong identity once again – we’re playing the right way and it’s a way that allows us to score some fantastic goals and helps develop players that we hope can take to next level.

“We’ve learnt a lot from this season and we’re improving all the time. We’re looking forward to the remaining games and then onto next season as well – hopefully with the fans back!”

Lincoln City boss makes claim ahead of Sunderland clash

Imps boss Michael Appleton was speaking ahead of his side’s clash with the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

On the clash, Appleton said: “Everyone will be expecting them to turn us over.

“We’ll go up there and enjoy it. No-one is expecting us to win, everyone is expecting us to lose. Maybe we’ll surprise one or two.”

Lincoln recently lost to Sunderland on penalties in the semi-final of the Papa John’s Trophy, yet the performance encouraged Appleton.

Black Cats striker Charlie Wyke scored the equaliser that day, while Appleton also believes Lincoln striker Vadaine Oliver can cause problems.

“We played well there that night,” recalled the Lincoln boss. “Clearly, Charlie Wyke is a presence and a danger.”

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