Midfielder Uncertain Over Sunderland Future

Seb Larsson has admitted to feeling vulnerable to the changing times at Sunderland, but won't be making any plans over his future before speaking to Paolo Di Canio.

Asked on international duty if he has held talks with the Italian about his future at the club, Larsson replied:

No, not about the future. He came into a tight situation and was focused only on winning the points we needed.

But it is clear there will be changes in the squad. That is always the case when a new coach arrives and we have carried an extremely thin squad this year. There have already been plenty of changes and I think there will be even more.

I haven't thought about my own future. I have one year left (on his contract) and a new coach. I'll take it easy during the summer then hear his (Di Canio's) ideas when I get back.

I felt I gained a lot of confidence when he came in, but I don't know his ideas for me next year. I'll have to find out.

I went as a Bosman last time and it is perhaps not very likely to happen twice in a row. I like it here and I am not chasing a move in any way.

You would have to say that Larsson's position at Sunderland looks a little precarious right now. Basel midfielder Cabral is set to arrive next month and it is unlikely he will be the only midfield recruit.

Furthermore, Lee Cattermole will be back to fitness, sitting on a new long-term contract, and keen to re-establish himself, and both Alfred N'Diaye and Jack Colback have impressed their new manager.

In the wider areas, Larsson looks similarly vulnerable with Di Canio targeting pace and penetration for those positions, neither of which can be offered by the former Birmingham man.

I don't think you could fault Seb Larsson's attitude or commitment to the club. For my money he is one of the most hard working players in the whole division and can produced moments of quality, particularly from set-piece situations.

You'd have to suspect, however, that if the opportunity to move him on this summer and free up a little extra room for his rebuilding presents itself, it is one Di Canio will happily take.