Sunderland AFC news: Former Cats and Arsenal striker weighing up his options plus Jordan Pickford recollection

The 31-year-old frontman made 30 appearances for the Black Cats during a loan spell from Arsenal in the 2011/12 season and scored eight goals.

Since then, the Dane has struggled with injuries and has made just 13 appearances for Copenhagen, managed by former Wolves boss Stale Solbakken, this season.

"I'm proud that I have now played in the FCK Jersey (Copenhagen) and scored a goal in Telia Parken, which was always one of my dreams as a footballer,” said Bendtner.

"I knew the conditions of the opportunity that FCK and Stale gave me, and I've been treated well by everyone in the club.

"Of course, I had hoped for more playing time and maybe a longer contract, but I fully respect Stale's decision, and in no way do I regret my time here in FCK.

"I would like to thank everyone in the club and especially the fans for the support I have received, which has touched me deeply.

"Now, I will thoroughly consider my options and decide what the future has in store for me - on or off the pitch."

Gorrin discusses Pickford’s quality

Former Sunderland academy prospect Alex Gorrin says Jordan Pickford’s talent was clear to see from an early age.

Gorrin, 26, left the Black Cats’ youth set-up in 2014 to join A-League side Wellington Phoenix and is now plying his trade at Oxford United in League One.

The midfielder is set to feature in Wednesday’s EFL Cup quarter-final against Premier League champions Manchester City and has been discussing his career to date.

During an interview with the Mirror, Gorrin, who was born in Tenerife, spoke about Pickford who has gone on to become England’s No 1 goalkeeper.

"From sunny Tenerife to cold Sunderland! At the time Sunderland were in the Premier League and it was a great opportunity,” said Gorrin.

“I played with Jordan there. He always played above his age, so he was with us most of the time. You could see from early doors, he was a really good player.”