Football League World

Tottenham Hotspur had a relatively quiet summer transfer window compared to some of their Premier League rivals, but one of their more notable additions was that of Archie Gray, who joined Spurs from Championship outfit Leeds United last summer.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou clearly has high hopes for the 18-year-old, who excelled in the second tier for the Whites last season, which was enough to convince the north London side to fork out a fee within the region of £30m for his services.

Making the switch from a Championship side to a Premier League club who are also striving to enjoy a successful Europa League campaign was a brave jump for Gray, who had to wait until early December to make his first top-flight start, albeit he had heavily featured for Spurs in both the EFL Cup and in Europe.

Gray's position at Spurs will surprise Leeds

Last season was Gray's first as a member of the senior squad at Elland Road, and one in which he proved his versatility, as he shone through as one of the second tier's best players both at full-back and in central midfield.

However, during his time with the West Yorkshire club, the Leeds academy graduate never started at centre-back for the Whites in the Championship, but being moved to central defence by Postecoglou has seen him make back-to-back starts for Spurs for the first time.

The Whites faithful will be surprised to see Gray operating as a central defender, but it is a role which clearly has the potential to work in both his and Tottenham's favour.

Last Thursday, he starred at the heart of Postecoglou's back four alongside Romania international Radu Dragusin, as Spurs drew 1-1 with Rangers at Ibrox.

Following a decent performance in Glasgow, the talented teenager was chosen as a centre-back once more as his side took on Southampton on Sunday night, and it worked a treat as Spurs kept a clean sheet during an emphatic 5-0 win over the Saints.

Furthermore, as per FotMob, Gray completed the most passes out of any player involved in Sunday's fixture between the Saints and Spurs, with 91 successful passes.

While the central defence role is still fairly unfamiliar to the England youth international, who played as a full-back or in midfield for Leeds last term, he is currently performing well there, and has every chance of remaining in his new position for upcoming challenges against Manchester United in the EFL Cup, and against Premier League leaders Liverpool in the top-flight.

Leeds supporters will be proud of Gray's Tottenham exploits

Last term, the Ellland Road faithful would have felt an enormous sense of pride seeing their club's academy graduate performing so well for the West Yorkshire side week in, week out.

Furthermore, the 18-year-old is part of a proud Leeds dynasty, as the son of Andy Gray, who played for the Whites in the Premier League, and the grandson of Frank Gray, who won the first division title with the Elland Road outfit in the 1970s, while he is also the great nephew of Leeds legend Eddie Gray.

His family links to the club will have made his decision to leave the Whites even more difficult, but supporters will also be proud to see him performing so well in the top-flight and in the Europa League.

But one aspect of Gray's Spurs career to date which may continue to surprise Leeds fans is that he is being deployed as a centre-back for his new club. He has the talent to play anywhere on the pitch in the eyes of many, but to see him at the heart of defence for an established and ambitious Premier League side already, will catch a few off guard.

The injury crisis at AFC Wimbledon could not have come at the worst time, and yet, you could also argue that there is a silver lining.

Despite the slew of injuries occurring right when the tough fixture buildup period around December and January has hit, the winter transfer window is just around the corner.

Even with the low transfer funds that fans of Wimbledon have become accustomed to too, thanks to being fan-owned and funded, there needs to be some moves made, especially in the defensive unit, which is where a former club of Johnnie Jackson steps in.

Johnnie Jackson must use Tottenham Hotspur connection to bring in Alfie Dorrington

Jackson should look to lean on his connections with Tottenham Hotspur, who were his first professional club, having signed that deal with the North London side in 1999. He would go on to play at Spurs 20 times and stayed until 2006.

It's another Tottenham graduate that he should have his eye on now, centre-back Alfie Dorrington.

Dorrington is highly thought of at Spurs, having been at the club since the age of 13 and progressing impressively through the ranks. He became the club's under-21s captain along the way, as well as earning youth international caps for England from u15 to u19 level, where he currently is in the England setup.

He is also a boyhood Tottenham fan and surely has his eyes set on becoming a mainstay in the Spurs first team in the not-too-distant future, having already signed his first professional deal with the club back in 2023 and trained with the senior squad since late last year too.

But the Lilywhites are probably going to want to test him out on loan first, with Dorrington not given first-team opportunities under Ange Postecoglou despite their current injury crisis at the back, and Wimbledon could be the perfect location for him.

He has gained experience against EFL and National League sides already this season, having played in the EFL Trophy and National League Cup group stages with Spurs age-group sides, so he will not take too much bedding into the tough rigours of League Two.

Away from match experience and readiness for action at Wimbledon, he is also perfectly suited to Jackson's style of play. A modern centre-back, Dorrington is comfortable and confident in possession, which is exactly the sort of player Jackson needs - with James Ball and Joe Lewis, the duo usually asked to progress the ball, both injured.

Spurs will want to see all facets of their youngster's game developed and the Dons could offer such a role if a loan deal was agreed.

Despite this transfer being quite an obvious move to make with Wimbledon's current injury problems and Jackson's connection to what you can consider his boyhood club, it would only be the second occurrence of using former club links to sign players up.

His only other signing from a club that he had previously been at was Josh Davison from Charlton Athletic, where Jackson had played, captained, and managed.

He brought Davison into the Addicks' first team while at Charlton as their manager and upon arrival at Wimbledon in the summer of 2022, he made the now 25-year-old one of his first signings, but the former Swindon Town loanee's time at Plough Lane was definitely a mixed bag, and not as successful as both he and Jackson would have hoped.

Instead, the connections most used at the club are those which are shared by Director of Football Craig Cope and first-team coach Dave Reddington, whose connections are to Solihull Moors and Crystal Palace respectively.

And the links between the two are already being used more than with Jackson's and with arguably better outcomes. From one of Cope's former clubs, Solihull Moors, the Dons have already pinched both Josh Kelly and Callum Maycock, and while it may have taken both a little while to grow into their roles at Wimbledon, they are both now becoming strong first-team members and sorely missed in Maycock's case with the midfielder being one of many names on the treatment table.

Whereas Reddington's former club, Crystal Palace, has already lent Wimbledon the services of Owen Goodman in goal since the coach's arrival in the summer.

Connections will forever be useful in the world of football, and despite the Dons' recent dip into the free agent market to sign both Sam Hutchinson and Romaine Sawyers on short-term deals, these links to former clubs should maybe be explored more in the transfer windows to avoid the rush to replace long injury lists with free agents and youth players being recalled from beneficial loan spells.

So, even though Jackson has had a very hit-and-miss record of going back to former sides for signings, it should certainly not be ignored next time an opportunity, or need, presents itself.

Steed Malbranque may not have been a household name for some, but his impact on English football, especially during his time at Sunderland, was profound and helped him achieve cult-hero status.

Born in Mouscron, Belgium, Malbranque progressed through the academy ranks at French club Lyon. Making his professional debut for the club as an 18-year-old in 1998, he proceeded to make nearly 100 appearances before a move to Fulham came to fruition in 2001.

There, he began to earn a reputation as a cultured midfielder with an eye for a pass and an engine that never seemed to run out of fuel. Malbranque’s career in England spanned a decade, and he left his mark at every club he played for, but particularly in the North East with Sunderland.

The Frenchman first arrived on British shores in 2001, when he joined Fulham from French side Lyon. It was at Fulham that he made his name, becoming a key figure for the Cottagers over five seasons. Malbranque’s technical ability, close control, and his knack for threading a perfectly timed pass made him a fan favourite at Craven Cottage.

His versatility allowed him to play both centrally and out wide, adding an extra layer of tactical flexibility to his game. During his time at Fulham, he racked up 211 appearances, scoring 44 goals and providing 29 assists in all competitions, demonstrating his ability to contribute in the final third.

After leaving Fulham in 2006, Malbranque made the move to Tottenham Hotspur, where he enjoyed two seasons of Premier League football. Though his goal contributions dipped slightly, his work ethic and consistency were still clear for all to see. Malbranque was never the most prolific player in front of goal, but his game was more about creativity and being a reliable player out of possession, which were two qualities that made him stand out in a competitive Spurs squad.

Remaining in the Premier League after his two years at Tottenham came to an end, Malbranque's next challenge came at the Stadium of Light, with the midfielder penning a four-year deal at Sunderland. It was his move to the Black Cats in 2008 that arguably brought out the best in Malbranque.

Signed for around £4 million, the Frenchman became an instant hit on Wearside, as his tenacity and quality helped stabilise the Black Cats in the Premier League. Playing under Roy Keane and later Steve Bruce, Malbranque slotted seamlessly into Sunderland’s midfield, where his experience and leadership helped guide the team to comfortable league finishes in most seasons.

Steed Malbranque's career at Sunderland

Malbranque enjoyed his best form in a Sunderland shirt during the 2009/10 season, proving to be fruitful on the left-flank out wide as opposed to the right. Malbranque remained at Sunderland for the 2010/11 season, but this time he moved into a more central role to accommodate loan signing Danny Welbeck.

Across his three-year stint at Sunderland, Malbranque made 112 appearances, and while he only managed two goals, he also provided 16 assists. His numbers may not jump off the page, but his influence on the pitch was undeniable.

Malbranque was the engine of the Sunderland midfield, a player who tirelessly worked box-to-box, linking play and setting the tempo. His intelligence and vision allowed Sunderland to dictate games, especially at home, where his composed play helped the team break down more stubborn defences as the heartbeat of the side.

It was Malbranque’s relentless work rate, coupled with his ability to retain possession under pressure, that endeared him to Sunderland fans. They loved his commitment, his determination to cover every blade of grass, and his willingness to give everything for the shirt.

He was a player who never shirked responsibility, whether it was tracking back to help his defence or driving the team forward in search of a goal. Sunderland hit the jackpot when they signed him, as he brought both quality and experience to the side during a period of transition.

Malbranque may not have grabbed the headlines with spectacular goals or flashy skills, but his contribution to Sunderland was immense. In a team that needed consistency and leadership, he provided both, and that’s why he remains so fondly remembered by Sunderland supporters to this day.

He left with their well-wishes, after completing three years of his four-year deal at The Stadium of Light, when he returned to France with Saint-Etienne securing his services. That's after Steve Bruce stated he was surplus to requirements, and it was also revealed his transfer would help to free up funds for new summer signings as well as to reduce their wage bill.

However, that stint proved to be very brief, and a return to Lyon came to fruition in 2012. Malbranque proceeded to enjoy another four years with the French club, before moves to Caen and a brief retirement before coming out of it to feature for MDA Chasselay.

The midfielder's last spell within his playing career was with FC Limonest Saint-Didier in the Championnat National 3 in 2020 until 2022, which took his playing career comfortably into his 40s, albeit at amateur level back in his native country.

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson is attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the January transfer window.

According to The Sun, the Premier League side are considering an approach for the 24-year-old following an injury to Guglielmo Vicario.

Patterson has been a standout performer for the Black Cats since their return to the Championship in 2022.

The goalkeeper has conceded 11 from 14 league appearances in Régis Le Bris’ side this season, keeping seven clean sheets.

Patterson transfer price claim

When asked whether Patterson was good enough to play for Spurs, and what kind of fee could the club command for him, FLW’s Sunderland fan pundit Jack Austwicke suggested it is too soon to make this kind of move in the player’s career.

He has claimed a deal worth £10m-£15 mi would be good for the Black Cats, but that he believes Patterson’s ceiling right now is to be a solid number two to a fit Vicario.

“I’m not sure if Patterson is ready for the top of the Premier League just yet,” Austwicke told Football League World.

“You’re going to get scrutinised week in and week, and you get scrutinised obviously for Sunderland, but that is a huge jump, a massive, massive jump.

“I think as a number two he’d do well, play a few cup games, few of the lesser games, but if Vicario is injured he’s going to go straight in.

“I’m not too sure.

“I think £10m to 15 million for him is a good price, we’d do well to get that, would be happy with that.”

Sunderland told to take Patterson stance

Austwicke believes a January sale would be detrimental to Sunderland, even if alternative goalkeepers could be found to adequately replace him.

“I wouldn’t sell him in January,” he added.

“Simon Moore is a good keeper, don’t get me wrong, and Patterson’s not irreplaceable, there are keepers out there who are as good as him.

“But it would be quite a significant thing to do in January, I wouldn’t really agree with that.

“But, again, Moore isn’t a bad backup, so we’ll see.”

January sale of Patterson would be too disruptive

Patterson is a player with a lot of potential, and a stint in the Premier League is absolutely in his future if he can keep up his development.

But a sale in January would be awkward for Sunderland, and require them to go into the winter market looking for a long-term first-choice goalkeeper option.

Moore is a capable deputy for the odd game here and there, but he is not the future of that position.

Sunderland’s model does mean they’ll always be tempted at the right price, but that figure should be closer to £20 to 25 million in January in order to cash in.

Sunderland have been going well in the Championship, and are still in serious contention for automatic promotion despite their current six-game winless run.

Prior to their somewhat rotten streak, which has included five draws and an away defeat to direct promotion rivals Sheffield United, Regis Le Bris' men had been picking up some impressive results.

For example, the Black Cats hammered Sheffield Wednesday 4-0 in August before defeating Burnley, who are vying for an immediate Premier League return.

A 1-0 victory over North East rivals Middlesbrough also produced one of the most memorable moments of the Black Cats' campaign so far, while Le Bris will hope his side can get back to winning ways with some favourable fixtures lying ahead in December.

Indeed, the Stadium of Light faithful will be hoping to see back-to-back home victories when their side take on mid-table opponents Stoke City on Saturday, and Bristol City next Tuesday.

Such an eventuality would see another upturn in fortunes for the Black Cats, but matters could get worse for them in January, if Tottenham Hotspur's interest in goalkeeper Anthony Patterson comes to fruition during the upcoming transfer window.

Wigan Athletic's Sam Tickle could be perfect Patterson replacement for Sunderland

Tottenham's interest in Patterson is entirely logical given the fact that their usual number one choice, Guglielmo Vicario, has been ruled out for four months following a fractured ankle injury.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou may be keen on finalising a deal for the Black Cats keeper in January, in an effort to ease the workload of former back-up choice Fraser Forster, who has filled in between the sticks since Vicario's absence.

That would spell bad news for the Black Cats, who will not want to see the departure of their talented academy graduate, during a season in which they are vying for promotion.

However, Wigan's Sam Tickle could be a perfect replacement for Patterson, and he is arguably the best goalkeeper below the Premier League and Championship, while at 22-years-old he boasts plenty of potential.

He maintained a clean sheet during a 7-0 win over Luxembourg on his England Under-21 debut last term, and is proving his worth yet again in League One this campaign.

While an inconsistent Latics side sit 15th in the League One table, only Exeter City's Joe Whitworth has maintained more clean sheets in the division than Tickle this season.

He also boasts an impressive save percentage of 78.7% in the third tier this campaign, as per FotMob, and he made key saves against both Carlisle United and Cambridge United in the FA Cup, to ensure his side's progress to the third round.

Tickle's Arsenal snub could play into Sunderland's favour

There is no doubt that while Tickle is a Latics academy graduate and is clearly enjoying his key role in the senior team, he should be plying his trade in a higher quality division than that of League One.

His ability was majorly highlighted by the fact that Arsenal were interested in his services last summer, after Aaron Ramsdale joined Southampton in search of regular game time.

However, as reported by The Sun, the 22-year-old turned down the chance to join the Premier League giants amid concerns over his own game time.

But if the Black Cats do lose Patterson to Spurs in January, then the number one spot in Le Bris' team would be up for grabs, which could be a major opportunity for Tickle.

The FA Cup is a unique spectacle season upon season which delivers the sort of results not witnessed in other competitions, so this year's second round was hotly anticipated.

It did not disappoint either, as Saturday night saw League Two play-off chasers AFC Wimbledon fall to a defeat at the hands of National League mid-table outfit Dagenham & Redbridge.

Sunday also witnessed an upset as National League newcomers Tamworth disposed of League One Burton Albion via a penalty shoot-out victory.

Although the absence of replays has taken the shine off the cup in the eyes of many lower league and non-league supporters, there have still been shocks to cherish this term, and that's before we get into round three, where Premier League clubs are susceptible to stumble.

However, seventh tier Harborough Town's luck was out on Sunday, as they twice held the lead away from home at League One Reading, but eventually fell to a 5-3 defeat following extra time.

Sandro's FA Cup appearance will have surprised Tottenham Hotspur and Reading supporters

But while the Royals' clash with Southern Premier opposition did not produce a surprise result, it did include a player many supporters will have been surprised to see, in the form of ex-Brazil international and former Tottenham midfielder Sandro, who made his debut for Harborough.

His appearance will have shocked both Royals and Spurs fans alike, as the 35-year-old had previously retired, and his last competitive appearance prior to Sunday's FA Cup outing came during the 2021/22 season, when he was plying his trade for Portugese side B-SAD.

Sandro played for Spurs during five Premier League seasons, after signing from Brazilian Serie A side Internacional in 2010, before leaving in favour of QPR in 2014.

In fact, his most recent appearance in English football, prior to his Harborough debut on Sunday, came when he was playing for the R's in the 2016/17 Championship season.

He is also a familiar face to fellow second tier outfit West Brom, where he spent the latter half of the 2015/16 Premier League season, while on loan from the R's.

But it is Tottenham and Reading fans who will have been most surprised by the midfielder's return to the English game, as he made four Champions League appearances for Spurs back in 2010/11, while his most recent outing saw him playing for a seventh tier side against the Royals in the FA Cup.

Frankly, supporters of either club could not be blamed if they had not realised that Sandro had returned to his playing days, and would be making a cup appearance in Berkshire on Sunday.

Following his previous retirement from football, the Brazilian works as a hospitality host at Spurs, which is where he met season ticket holder and Harborough boss Mitch Austin.

Sandro told the Daily Mail: "It’s a funny story.

"I work for Tottenham at home games, talking to the fans in hospitality.

"Mitch was in the restaurant and was saying 'Sandro, you look good, you should play for my team.'

"I said yeah, why not, man, let’s go.

"It was just like that."

Perhaps fittingly for a competition which has sparked so many unique tales up and down the country, it was in the FA Cup that Sandro's debut for the seventh tier side would arrive.

While Royals supporters will be best pleased by the fact that their side has progressed to round three, seeing a Premier League veteran plying his trade for their semi-pro opponents on Sunday will also have brought a smile to their faces.

Spurs fans, meanwhile, will be intrigued to see how their former midfield regular performs in the Southern Premier, but may be disappointed that Harborough did not progress with the Brazilian among their ranks.

Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson ahead of a potential swoop.

This is according to The Sun, who have gone on to report that Spurs will keep an eye on the player for the rest of the year too, as they weigh up whether to make a move for the Englishman.

The 24-year-old has been one of the first names on the teamsheet for the Black Cats since the latter stages of the 2021/22 campaign.

They went on to be promoted back to the Championship at the end of that season, with the shot-stopper's contributions helping them to escape from the clutches of League One.

The Wearside outfit then went on to secure a top-six finish back in the second tier at the end of the 202/23 campaign, before falling well short last term.

Patterson has been fairly consistent throughout this period though, and along with Sheffield United's Michael Cooper, Patterson has been able to establish himself as one of the best keepers outside the Premier League.

Tottenham weighing up Anthony Patterson approach

Patterson has attracted plenty of interest in the past.

Leicester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers were previously linked with a move for the shot-stopper, but clubs higher up the English top tier have also been linked with a move for him.

Manchester United and Liverpool are two teams that were believed to have taken an interest earlier this season, but another team have now entered the mix and could beat the duo to his signature.

Spurs will keep tabs on Patterson for the remainder of the year, before deciding whether he will become an "emergency signing", according to The Sun.

With Vicario currently out of action, the North London outfit need cover, and Patterson could potentially come in and become an important figure in the English capital.

He may need to sit on the bench at times though - and Tottenham also have a couple of other options in mind - including Burnley's James Trafford and Anger stopper Yahia Fofana.

Sunderland should look to retain Anthony Patterson

Having sold Jack Clarke during the summer window, the Black Cats should be looking to keep the remainder of their squad together.

Patterson is such an important player between the sticks, and even though Simon Moore came in for him when he was injured earlier this season, the 24-year-old's departure would be sorely felt.

His contract doesn't expire until 2028 either, so the Wearside outfit shouldn't be under too much pressure to sell him.

The Black Cats are also competing for promotion at this point, despite some disappointing recent results.

Whilst they are still in the mix for promotion, it would be a mistake to cash in on one or two of their best players, so retaining their squad should be a key January priority.

Carlton Palmer believes that James Trafford should remain at Burnley beyond the January transfer window amid interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

According to Talksport, the London club are eyeing the 22-year-old as a potential option following the injury to Guglielmo Vicario.

The shot-stopper is out with an ankle injury which has required surgery to already take place, and is set to be absent for months rather than weeks.

This has come as a huge blow to Ange Postecoglou’s side, who will have Fraser Forster to step into the team in his place.

The 36-year-old’s previous poor form for Spurs has led to speculation that a signing may be sought in the winter market to better cover for Vicario’s absence.

Carlton Palmer gives James Trafford transfer verdict

Palmer is not surprised by the renewed speculation over Trafford’s future at Turf Moor, but expects him to remain with the Championship side.

He has questioned why the youngster would make the switch to a team where he will ultimately end up out of the team once Vicario is back fit.

“Speculation surrounding Burnley’s outstanding goalkeeper James Trafford, with the latest team to be interested is Tottenham, as they have an injury to their first team goalkeeper,” Palmer told Football League World.

“I doubt very much whether Burnley are going to sell James in the January transfer window.

“There’s been a lot of speculation about the 22-year-old in recent times, he was supposed to leave in the summer, but that deal didn’t materialise.

“He was supposed to go to Newcastle on the final day with £20 million plus add-ons, the deal didn’t materialise, they rejected £15 million from Newcastle before it went to £20 million.

“So, at the end of the day, it’s not going to be a thing where Burnley are rushing into it.

“The situation is he’s playing regular first team football, he’s been outstanding, why would he go to a club where he’s noHe has predicted it will cost somewhere between £30m-£35m to convince Burnley to cash in midway through the campaign.t going to play? He’s playing regularly now, Burnley are going to be knocking on the door for promotion.

“They should be looking at one and two, but they’re certainly going to be in the race for the play-offs.”

Palmer gives James Trafford valuation prediction

Palmer has predicted it will cost somewhere between £30 to 35 million to convince Burnley to cash in midway through the campaign.

“Certainly they’ll want a lot of money for him, they signed him from Man City in a deal worth £19 million, so there’s no way he’s going to sell the 22-year-old without getting a serious profit on him, with him being such a young player and he’s only going to get better,” he added.

“So, I can’t see Burnley selling James in the January transfer window.

“I mean, Burnley are on 33 points, only two points off the leaders in the division, they’ve only conceded six goals, that’s all they’ve conceded all season, so they’ve got the best defensive record in the league.

“There’s no way they’re going to allow him to leave the football club unless they get huge amounts of money.

“I would be talking £30 to 35 million for them to let him go, so I still expect to see him at Burnley this season.

“And for a young player, who is number one at a football club, why would you want to go and sit on the bench? Makes no sense.”

James Trafford is best off staying at Burnley

A move to Spurs would net Trafford the short-term boost of regular Premier League game time at a big club for a few months.

But once Vicario is back fit, he will be dropped back to the bench because the Italian is one of the best in the division.

While Trafford may feel he can compete for game time with a fit Vicario, that is a big risk to take at this stage of his career, especially when he’s settled at Burnley.

Remaining there until the end of the campaign and reassessing his future in the summer is the best course of action, especially as the Clarets could be back in the top flight by then.

Tottenham Hotspur sent scouts to watch Sunderland's Tommy Watson on Saturday, while Crystal Palace and West Ham United are also interested, according to TBR Football.

The North London club pounced on the opportunity to witness one of the Black Cats' most promising talents in the capital as they drew 1-1 with Millwall at The Den.

TBR Football understands that Crystal Palace and West Ham are also believed to be tracking the 18-year-old winger.

Watson was not the only point of attraction at The Den, with Sunderland star Chris Rigg also being scouted by Spurs and Arsenal.

Tommy Watson benefiting from increased minutes for Sunderland

Brighton & Hove Albion made an audacious deadline day bid for Watson at the end of the summer transfer window.

Although not many outside of Sunderland would have known much about the up-and-coming talent, the Seagulls were clearly onto something.

The Wearsiders resisted Brighton's approach and while the 18-year-old had to remain patient for opportunities, he is now emerging as a regular under Regis Le Bris.

Having featured as a late substitute in his first four appearances for the club, Watson has started in each of his last two outings, against Preston North End and Millwall.

Watson is likely to feature more heavily in the coming weeks, with Romaine Mundle set to be out with a hamstring injury until the New Year.

Furthermore, Patrick Roberts will likely see his minutes managed. Although a regular starter, the winger rarely completes 90 minutes of football.

The right-winger is following in the footsteps of Rigg, who is now a regular starter for the club, having come through the academy.

Rigg made his debut at 15 years of age for the Black Cats and, although he was a squad player last season, he has proven too good to be rested this term.

Le Bris has shown that he is not afraid to give youth a chance and is a believer that if you are good enough, then you are old enough.

This belief will surely play into Watson's hands, who has been knocking on the door for quite some time. With Mundle out for a lengthy period, now is his chance to shine.

Comparisons to Jack Clarke have been thrown around regularly, with many claiming Watson is a re-gen of the departed Ipswich Town winger.

Those similarities are glaringly obvious, considering their position, direct style of play and ability to beat a man.

Reports of Premier League interest in Watson are not surprising as the teenager looks destined for a bright future in the game.

Given his age and the fact he has over a year and a half remaining on his current deal, it would take some offer for the Wearsiders to consider letting him leave.

With the 18-year-old in line to play his longest stretch of games in his budding career, he will be relishing the opportunity to make an impact for his boyhood club.

It is testament to Watson's ability as a young footballer that he is being pursued by some of the leading names in English football.

The teenager is benefiting from a more regular role in the Sunderland side but must keep his head down and focus on his development as a footballer.

The Black Cats are braced for January bids for their stars, but Watson is surely a player the club will look to hold on to for the foreseeable future.

Premier League teams are reportedly starting to look at Aston Villa and Stockport County prospect Louie Barry, with Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur being two of the main contenders to sign the youngster.

The report comes from Spanish outlet Fichajes, who claim the on-loan Villa prospect could be tempted by a top-flight move.

This weekend proved, once again, that it is ridiculous that Barry has spent the last two seasons in League Two and League One.

County took on fellow newly promoted side Wrexham. Despite their new status in the English third tier, both are threatening to make the play-offs at least this season, making the contest a potentially very important one, even at this stage of the term.

Stockport came away from the Edgeley Park encounter with a 1-0 victory, courtesy of the right boot of Barry. Not for the first time this season, he finished in ludicrous fashion, finding the far corner of the goal from the left edge of the penalty box, threading his attempt through the many bodies that stood before him.

The 21-year-old forward has been sent on loan to Stockport by Villa for the last two campaigns, and he is arguably doing better now, in a higher division, than he was last time out. That goal against Wrexham took his tally for the campaign, in the league, to 11 goals, plus one assist on top of that.

Louie Barry attracting Premier League attention

Barry's exploits aren't going unnoticed. The former Barcelona academy member may already be contracted to a Premier League side but there are other top flight teams who are reportedly considering a move for him.

According to Fichajes, Leicester and Tottenham are the leading candidates in England's first division to sign Barry, if he is sold by Villa. That would, of course, mean him leaving Stockport too.

Spurs have shown a great willingness to invest in younger players already this season. They spent £40 million and £8.5 million, respectively, on 18-year-old talents in the summer; Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray and Swedish creative Lucas Bergvall.

Ange Postecoglou's side see Barry as both a short and long-term option for their forward line, as per Fichajes. Just like their successful attempt to sign Gray in the summer, capturing this current EFL talent won't come without some competition.

Leicester may also look to Barry as an option to help them out right now, as well as down the road, given their current struggles.

The Spanish outlet added that the chance to play in the Premier League could be an enticing factor for Barry.

Losing Louie Barry would be a bigger blow for Stockport than for Aston Villa

Just how well Dave Challinor's side have adapted to League One football has been impressive. Even with the resources behind them, they weren't so dominant in the fourth tier that it felt like they were going to be one of the leading contenders once they'd been promoted, but here we are.

They have taken advantage of what feels like a generally weakened/underperforming League One, and they now have the chance to try and achieve back-to-back promotions.

It's a hard achievement for any team to pull off, but it will be even tougher without Barry there to help. He's been unquestionably their best player this season, and it's not like they'd get any cash compensation for losing him that they'd be able to use to replace him either.

For Villa, selling to a Premier League rival might not be the smartest thing in the world to do, given his potential. However, they have plenty of top young forwards and wingers in their ranks already. It feels like Barry is unlikely to get a shot in their first team in the near future, so why wouldn't they consider moving him on for a healthy profit.

If that is what happens in January - although there is no guarantee that anyone will make a move for him in the winter - it'll be a much more painful blow for the Hatters to absorb than for Barry's Premier League parent club.