Sunderland boss Jack Ross reacts to Josh Maja and Lynden Gooch contact talk

Jack Ross isn't getting distracted by the ongoing contract negotiations at Sunderland but is hopeful Josh Maja and Lynden Gooch are close to signing new deals.
Sunderland striker Josh Maja is still yet to sign a new deal at Sunderland.Sunderland striker Josh Maja is still yet to sign a new deal at Sunderland.
Sunderland striker Josh Maja is still yet to sign a new deal at Sunderland.

The Black Cats duo, who have been vital players for the Wearsiders this campaign, will see their current deals expire at the end of this season.

Sunderland owner Stewart Donald claimed on social media earlier this week the pair wanted to stay, tweeting:

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"I am sure we will have some news before xmas. Both lads have told us they want to stay so hopefully we will Get a positive outcome soon."

Ross also believes the situation can be resolved in the coming weeks, and was asked if anything had changed regarding player contracts.

"No not at the moment," replied Ross ahead of this weekend's meeting with Bristol Rovers at the Stadium of Light.

"Stewart had alluded to hopefully having some news and I think that may be the case.

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"Because of the number of fixtures I have at the moment, pretty much my focus has been on that."

Ross insists he has no issues with the way Donald interacts with fans, and that he was well aware of the situation before the owner's tweet.

"Obviously I was privy to that information before Stewart tweeting it," added Ross.

"I've never had any issues with his levels of communication with supporters, I can't think of any occasions whereby he's communicated anything he hasn't done to me that's relevant to me.

"There's things I don't need to know that aren't particularly relevant to my job but those that are I'm always aware of."