Sunderland AFC news: Worrying academy developments at potential play-off rivals as Peterborough United eye reinforcements

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The Black Cats suffered a third straight loss against Blackpool on Saturday afternoon to all but end the Black Cats’ automatic promotion hopes.

Lee Johnson’s men have not won since Good Friday when they defeated 10-man Oxford United at the Stadium of Light.

That means it now looks like the play-offs for Sunderland with the automatic promotion spots seemingly out of reach but still mathematically possible.

A general view of Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats take on Hull City at the KCOM Stadium tomorrow evening, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45.

Here, though, we take you through all of the latest news and talk from around the division:

Portsmouth man resigns following player exodus

Portsmouth’s academy manager Mark Kelly has resigned from his role at Fratton Park.

That’s according to the Portsmouth News who broke the news that Pompey will release a host of fledgling talents at the end of the season.

Harry Kavanagh, Eoin Teggart and Gerard Storey have confirmed their departures, while Taylor Seymour, Harry Anderson, Charlie Bell and Harvey Rew haven't been offered new deals.

With a lack of talent to work with, Kelly feels it is pointless to continue.

Kelly will now serve a three-month notice period before his departure. During that time, he will help the released youngsters find new clubs ahead of next season.

Ex-Barnsley head of coaching Greg Miller is set to be appointed new academy manager.

Peterborough United eyeing reinforcements

Peterborough United are the latest club to join the race to sign Swindon Town player Scott Twine.

That’s according to a report in The Sun.

Barnsley, Brentford, Luton Town and QPR are also said to be keen on a deal for the midfielder.

Twine has netted 11 goals during the current campaign, including six during a loan spell at Newport County in the first part of the season.

Swindon Town are in disarray with manager John Sheridan resigning from the club after a run of five straight defeats,

Swindon Town are also sitting rock-bottom of the League One table and are seven points adrift from safety.

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