Might as well kick off our SB Nation adventure with a little news round. This is by no means a regular feature, I've just been quite busy today and haven't had a chance to update each and every story. So here's what's been happening in, around and generally near Sunderland today as there's been a fair few goings on...
Starting off with some good news, or rather GREAT news, Danny Welbeck and Fraizer Campbell hit the comeback trail with a behind-closed-doors friendly today at the Academy Of Light against West Ham United. Welbeck managed the first 45 minutes before being withdrawn, and Fraizer Campbell appeared in a 30 minute cameo in a 1-1 draw. Callum Driver on target for the visiting Hammers, and Irish youth international defender John Egan netting SAFC's equaliser with an unstoppable header.
A massive bonus that both came through the game unscathed, A 'Brucey Bonus' if you will, and both look set to be involved in some capacity when a rejuvinated Liverpool visit the Stadium Of Light in little under a week and a half's time.
Speaking of which, were you thinking of heading to the game? You'll have to be quick and/or lucky as there's only a handful of seats left (at time of writing). Tremendous news for the club, and indeed a credit to our fearless leader Niall Quinn, who has been badgering fans to come back for what seems like an eternity.
In transfer news, a pair of midfield maestro's look like staying on Wearside. Steed Malbranque has opened contract talks to extend his stay at the club, with his contract expiring this summer, whilst Jordan Henderson has moved quickly to reiterate his desire to stay at the club.
The England international told The Journal newspaper today "I'm playing every week in the Premier League and that's all I have ever dreamed of doing. I'm young and I'm playing for Sunderland. I'm not looking to leave." Take note Sir Alex & Roberto Mancini if you were still keeping tabs on him.
And last but not least, a well done from Roker Report to Jordan Pickford, as the 16 year old goalkeeper recieves a call-up to John Peacock's England U17 squad for the European Championship qualifiers against Spain, Belgium & Northern Ireland to be held later this month.
Meanwhile Niall Quinn is on the road having talk-ins with fans. We already reported from one last week, and we'll have a report from another of his later this week, so stay tuned.