This is why Sunderland's move for Newcastle United youngster Nathan Harker has stalled
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The Newcastle United stopper played two games for the Black Cats on a trial basis, having been told his contract at St James’s Park will not be extended.
But while Sunderland were keen to extend his stay, Premier League 2 regulations – which state a player contracted to another club can only play two trial games – meant his stay could not be extended.
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Hide AdBut Elliott Dickman has hinted that a move for Harker could be revisited in the summer.
“We did try to do something but the timing wasn’t quite right,” admitted the Sunderland under-23 boss.
“We wanted him to come and play some more games for us, but there’s rules and regulations that we have to follow.
“You’re only supposed to play two games [on trial] and Nathan played those two games.
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Hide Ad“We did try to look at something, but we respected him because he had other opportunities to pursue.
“That’s something we have to respect from his side of things.”
“Nathan came to us and we were pleased with how he did,” he continued.
“We can’t do anything now, but we’ll look at it again at the end of the season.
“He’s back at Newcastle now and if he plays games for them, fantastic.
“If he’s still someone we want to pursue in the summer then we will, and if not then we’ll wish him all the best.”