FORGOTTEN man Roy O’Donovan believes he still has a future at Sunderland under new boss Steve Bruce.

The Cork-born Roy Keane signing was fast-tracked into the first team after signing for the Black Cats three years ago and showed signs of fleeting promise in 19 Premier League appearances. But he disappeared completely from the first team radar last season, spending time on loan at Dundee and Blackpool before suffering an appendix problem that ended his season prematurely.

The smart money would be on new boss Bruce looking to shift on a player who is yet to make a significant impact in the English game, but O’Donovan is refusing to give up on his Sunderland career.

He believes that the appointment of a new manager gives him an opportunity to start afresh – and has ruled out the prospect of moving on before pre-season training begins on July 8. “This is a big summer for me, we have a new manager and it’s a new start,” the Irish striker said. “We will see what happens over the coming weeks, but I am determined to be here for pre-season so I can show the new manager what I can do.

“I haven’t spoken to the new

manager yet, so none of the players really know what his intentions are in the short term, but I have a year left here at Sunderland and I am keen to make an impression next season.”

Having been sent on loan to get further first-team experience, O’Donovan was left to reflect on a season where his career went backwards.

He made just 13 appearances for Dundee due to a combination of suspension and injuries before joining Blackpool, where he was more successful.

But just as he was recovering form and fitness, he was struck by appendicitis.

Now back and fully fit, he sees the chance to make himself a part of Bruce’s extended squad – even if it may be difficult to muscle his way into the first XI.

“I feel fit and well now, and able to play. It was good for me to go to Blackpool and get games. It was a pity I didn’t get to play as many as I’d have liked,” he said.

O’Donovan may take succour from Bruce’s promise after he was appointed to give all of his players the chance to impress.

That is the new manager’s intention, but the likes of Anthony Stokes, Daryl Murphy and O’Donovan may be faced with the prospect of moving on – or not playing first team football next season.

Bruce has been back at his desk this week trying to make significant progress on transfers, with a deal for Richard Dunne reported to be at an advanced stage.

Reports in the North West seemed to suggest yesterday that Manchester City will try and keep hold of their Republic of Ireland international – but Sunderland are certainly keen on him.

Sylvan Distin, the Portsmouth defender, was mentioned yesterday while Lee Cattermole, Titus Bramble and Darren Bent are also on Sunderland’s long list of targets.

Bruce, however, is renowned for his scouting network and his first signing may be an unheralded name from the Continent.

Meanwhile, Hull City have distanced themselves from bids for Dean Whitehead and Paul McShane. As reported in The Journal this week, Sunderland skipper Whitehead is heading for the exit door at the Stadium of Light in search of a ‘fresh challenge’ after five years on Wearside.

But Hull chairman Paul Duffen has ruled out a bid for Whitehead, insisting his club are looking to the imminent return of Jimmy Bullard for goals from midfield.

And The Journal has been told that rumours of interest from Wolves are unfounded at the present time.

Sunderland have announced two more pre-season friendlies.

The Black Cats will take on Darlington on Thursday, July 16, before flying to Portugal to play Portimonense on Sunday, July 19.