Phil Bardsley may have a Sunderland future beyond this season after all, report the Journal.
The long-serving defender appeared to be finally on his way out of the club recently when Gus Poyet revealed "it doesn't matter where we finish - I cannot see [Bardsley] staying at the club."
That declaration was reportedly a little premature with more talks between the club and player always scheduled for the end of the season.
To be honest, the constant talk of out-of-contract players is starting to become a little annoying. It's distracting and carries connotations of division at a time when unity is needed. The club really shouldn't have let it reach the point where going into the huge final four games of the season, fans are being left to question the commitment of so many players.
On Bardsley himself, well he does and will divide opinion. I'm not averse to him staying by any means. We'll leave you lot to debate his future amongst yourselves.