Report: John O’Shea considering Sunderland exit as Championship clubs plot swoop

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Sunderland’s relegation from the Championship to League One could be the final straw for long-serving centre-back John O’Shea.

This time last year, John O’Shea rejected offers from elsewhere to stay at Sunderland after their relegation to the Championship.

The Chronicle states that the veteran centre-back even had an offer from Wolves, the side who would go on to win the league in sensational style. Instead, however, O’Shea’s loyalty meant he ended the 2017/18 campaign suffering a second successive relegation on Wearside.

But, with his contract due to expire this summer, the chances of the Republic of Ireland legend committing his future to Sunderland again seems a little less likely as the club prepare for life in League One.

The Mirror (live transfer blog) reports that the 37-year-old is considering his options and could decide to jump from the sinking ship. It is understood that O’Shea is hoping to stay in the Championship.

And, fortunately for him, there are a number of second tier clubs who would allegedly be keen to sign the experienced centre-back on a free transfer.

37-year-old O’Shea was one of the few Sunderland players to emerge from a dismal season with any credit and still has plenty to offer despite his advancing years.

Looking back, however, it would be interesting to find out whether the former Manchester United favourite regrets his decision to snub Wolves last summer, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side heading back to the Premier League.