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After impressing all season for the under 21s, Duncan Watmore burst onto the first team scene with a highly promising performance against League One opposition in the 3-1 FA Cup third round win over Carlisle.
That performance obviously impressed ex-Sunderland star Graham Kavanagh, as the Cumbrian's manager has spoken out over his desire to take the youngster to Brunton Park on loan but admits he faces a lot of competition;
He has been brought to our attention for a number of weeks and I've seen him a couple of times. There are a good seven to 10 clubs interested in him and we've thrown our name in the ring.
I'm hoping with the good relationship we've built up with Sunderland, and in light of the way we play, that Gus [Poyet] would favour keeping him local so he can keep an eye on him.
It's thought that Sunderland are still undecided as to whether the player should go out on loan. Considering the progress he's made this season after signing from non-league Altrincham in the summer, staying with the club and training with the first team, as well as playing with the under 21s, may be more beneficial to the player's development for the time being.
Another potential first team appearance in the FA Cup fourth round against Kidderminster may also be enough to keep the 19-year-old on Wearside for the next few weeks at least.
Stay tuned to Roker Report throughout January as we keep you up to date with his and all other transfer news and rumours. Also, feel free to keep in touch with our dedicated Transfer Centre, which you can do by CLICKING HERE.
