Martyn Waghorn not for sale, says Sunderland boss

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has ruled out selling striker Martyn Waghorn to Leicester City.

Waghorn has been a big success during his loan spell at the Walkers Stadium.

Speculation was building on Wearside that City boss Nigel Pearson was set to make an offer to secure the 20-year-old striker's services permanently in the summer.

However, Bruce, right, said he had already earmarked Waghorn, who had his initial loan agreement extended until the end of the season, as one of his first-team strikers for next season and insisted he will be a key part of his squad.

"There's been no communication between myself and Nigel Pearson and a move will not come into the equation," said Bruce, who has been closely monitoring Waghorn's progress this season.

"We sent him there to get experience and the kid is doing very, very well indeed.

"I wouldn't entertain a permanent move. Next year I have him earmarked as being one of my strikers because I have been delighted with his progress.

"I don't think a move is a goer."

Waghorn has scored seven goals in 32 appearances, 16 as a substitute, and Pearson said Waghorn had been a pleasure to work with.

"I have not had a conversation with Steve and I can't elaborate other than to say he has done very well here," said Pearson.

"We would love to have him here but whether that is do-able, I don't know.

"People can speculate on it but it is not something I am in a position to go into in any great detail at the moment.

"Suffice to say, whatever happens it has been a great experience for him and he has come a long way. He has done tremendously well.

"If all players were as easy as him to work with then my job would be easier. He is eager to learn and he brings that youthful enthusiasm, as well as being a useful player. He has done exceptionally well for us."

Meanwhile, former City striker Paul Dickov has joined Leeds United.

The 37-year-old, who was released by City in January, has been training with the League One side since February but Leeds were unsure they could sign him because of FIFA rules which prevent a player playing for more than two clubs in the same country in one season.

Dickov has made one appearance for City and spent a loan spell at Derby County.

However, the issue has now been resolved and Dickov has signed a short-term contract until the end of the season.