Sunderland AFC transfer rumours: Jermain Defoe's Sunderland return chances discussed by pundit as Black Cats loanee nets first goal for new club

Indeed, the Black Cats have suffered just one defeat in 19 games in all competitions and won at Wembley for the first time in 48-years last month.

Last Monday’s draw against Peterborough United means that Sunderland are still just two points behind second-placed Posh with a game in hand on Darren Ferguson’s side

Here, though, we take you through all of the latest news from across the division:

Gabby Agbonlahor delivers verdict on possibility of a Jermain Defoe return

Jermain Defoe would rather stay at Rangers than re-join Sunderland, according to former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor.

The striker is said to be keen to stay at the Ibrox Stadium for another season.

Asked whether a move back to the Stadium of Light would be good for Defoe, Agbonlahor told Football Insider: “It could be, maybe.

“But Jermain Defoe has said he wants to stay at Rangers so I think he’d rather stay where he is than go back to the Championship.

Sunderland loanee bags first goal during spell away from Stadium of Light

Elliot Embleton has bagged his first goal for play-off chasing Blackpool.

The attacking midfielder joined the League One club in a shock January move but extended his contract at Sunderland in the process.

Embleton netted his first goal for the Tangerines during their 4-1 home win over Gillingham in his 11th appearance for Neil Critchley’s side.

Sunderland still have to play Blackpool twice in the run-in but Embleton will be unavailable to play against his parent club.

Sunderland-linked player targeted by Premier League club

Leicester City are the latest club to be linked with Hibernian youngster Josh Doig.

That’s according to the Scottish Sun who also mentions Leeds United, Manchester City and Arsenal as potential suitors for the left-back.

Doig signed a new long-term deal at Easter Road earlier this year but that is not stopping Leicester from keeping tabs on him.

Sunderland were linked with a move for the Hibs youngster back in January.

Doig currently plays his football under former Black Cats boss Jack Ross.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor