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Simon Grayson updates on the futures of two Sunderland players Jeremain Lens and Wahbi Khazri

Preston North End manager Simon Grayson (Reuters)
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Sunderland’s Jeremain Lens and Wahbi Khazri could still have roles to play at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland boss Simon Grayson has admitted to the Sunderland Echo that he is planning to have Jeremain Lens and Wahbi Khazri available to him next season.

Both Lens and Khazri were expected to leave the Stadium of Light this summer, but they appear to have found their way into the new Black Cats’ boss’s plans.

And while Grayson admits the pair could still depart, he is hoping to have the attackers around for next term.

Jeremain Lens scores the second goal for Sunderland

“Definitely. While they’re still contracted to the club, they’ll be considered for selection,” Grayson said.

“When you see the performances, especially with Lens today, that’s why they’ve played at a real good level and are worth the money they are.

“I’m planning for them to be here but I’ve got contingency plans for if they’re not.”

Lens was sent out on loan to Fenerbahce last term, with his attitude coming into question.

The winger seemingly did not fit into previous Sunderland boss David Moyes’ plans, but he has enjoyed an impressive pre-season.

Khazri, meanwhile, was chronically underused by Moyes – much to the frustration of Sunderland’s supporters.

Khazri is a popular figure at the Stadium of Light, and could be a real threat in the Championship, if used correctly.

Sunderland's Wahbi Khazri