Russell Anderson's exit leaves Cats short

Jan 15 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

“The club is aware there will be a bid dropping in soon.

“Should the club really consider selling me, it would probably be time to leave.

“It is quite difficult to say anything else. My focus is the Africa Cup of Nations for the time being. Then we are going to see.”

Even if a bid is forthcoming sooner rather than later, however, it will be the beginning not the end of the process. Bruce is anxious for back-up to Phil Bardsley – his only specialist right-back. It is also a problem position for Milan, who have floated the possibility of David Beckham filling in there.

Anderson played all 118 minutes of his Sunderland first-team career in 10 calamitous days in 2007.

His only start was in a humiliating 3-0 reverse as League One Luton Town knocked the Premier League Black Cats out of the League Cup.

Since that inauspicious start Anderson – who made over 300 appearances in 11 years with hometown club Aberdeen – has been dogged by injury. He had loans at Championship sides Plymouth Argyle and Burnley, but a second spell at Turf Moor was cut short by cruciate knee ligament damage.

“This decision has been taken with Russell to give him an opportunity to find a club where he can fulfil his desire to play more first-team football,” said Bruce from Sunderland’s warm weather training camp in Portugal.

“He has been very unfortunate with injuries since he came here but his attitude and determination to get back playing have been exemplary. We wish him all the very best for the future.”

Kenwyne Jones is expected to face Chelsea having recovered from a calf problem, although Stoke City manager Tony Pulis is unhappy with speculation over his interest in the striker.

“The situation is very disappointing because I’ve always tried to work manager-to-manager,” said Pulis. “As far as I’m concerned it’s not gone to that stage.”