The Leeds head coach is aware the loanee’s fate works very much in tandem with Sunderland’s.
Leeds United boss Steve Evans says Sunderland-owned Liam Bridcutt tells him every day that he’s still enjoying his football at Elland Road, according to BBC Radio Leeds.
And the Scot would love to keep the 26-year-old at Leeds next season.
However, he is fully aware that Sunderland’s top-flight status will have a big influence on Bridcutt’s future.
Evans told the BBC: “Do Sunderland stay in the Premier League? If so, Liam could be looking to move on. But, if they go down to the Championship, Sam [Allardyce] will have an opinion on what he should do, whether that’s in or out.
“I know he’d love to be here. He’s still enjoying his football. How do I know that? Apart from the fact he tells me on a daily basis, look at his performances.”
Whatever the critics say about Evans (even if it’s totally just), a positive from his time at Elland Road has definitely been the introduction of Bridcutt.
Leeds could do a lot worse than keep the Sunderland midfielder on board next season but, as Evans suggests, the fate of the Black Cats will determine whether the 26-year-old is still needed at the Stadium of Light.
United travel to Watford in the FA Cup this weekend for a tough clash against a Premier League side. At the same time, though, it’s a game that gives Leeds a big opportunity.
Sunderland, meanwhile, are not in action until the end of February, when they travel to West Ham United.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
