Altidore Considering January Switch

Sunderland striker Jozy Altidore is apparently set for a move away from the Stadium of Light during the January transfer window should he continue to miss out on a starting line-up spot.

Altidore is away on international duty with the United States and has been made well aware by coach Jurgen Klinsmann that he needs to be playing regularly at club level in order to remain first-choice for the national side.

The New Jersey native had the honour of captaining his country bestowed upon him in a September victory over the Czech Republic, but could still find himself under pressure should his contribution to the Sunderland cause be confined to warming the bench.

Speaking ahead of a friendly match double-header with Ecuador and Honduras, Altidore explained:

“I thought I’ve done everything I could this season to come in as fit as possible and try to make an impact when I’ve played.

“But, like I said, this four years I want to be part of the national team.

“Jurgen makes his message very clear; nobody is different. So, if it doesn’t turn around, then in January I’ll be looking to start elsewhere and make sure that I’m in his plans.”

He has made four substitute appearances for Gus Poyet's side so far in the Premier League this season, whilst scoring in a Capital One Cup loss to Stoke City on his only start. Additionally, his fellow forwards Steven Fletcher and Connor Wickham are hitting their stride and will be expected to keep him out of contention for the foreseeable future.

A mooted return to Major League Soccer after six years away appears to be the most likely scenario, though there could also be several interested parties at Championship level in England.

Sunderland do have official links on the other side of the Atlantic with Washington-based DC United, which could provide an ideal solution for the 24-year-old.

It's unclear at this stage whether the former Alkmaar centre forward would favour a permanent or temporary transfer elsewhere.