Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill is hopeful that goalkeeper Craig Gordan will stay with the club.

The Scotland international has struggled for fitness since joining the Black Cats from Hearts in 2007 for £9m.

O'Neill believes that Gordan would prove to be an asset at the Stadium of Light, if he can get over his injury problems.

"I have spoken to Craig and he has to get himself absolutely fit. If he is fit and properly raring to go at the end of the season, and is reaching anything like the form of previous times, he will be in demand, from both ourselves and other clubs," O'Neill told The People.

"Once Craig is absolutely pain-free, then I think that's the time to make a judgement."

Gordan's current deal is due to expire in the summer.