Cherries won't release Mepham on a free deal

SUNDERLAND’S quest to sign defender Chris Mepham on a permanent deal from Bournemouth has hit a huge stumbling block.

- By CLIVE YOULTON

The 27-year-old played a major role in helping the Black Cats secure promotion to the Premier League while on loan from the Cherries and on Monday was part of the Wales side which lost 4-3 in Belgium.

Now Mepham’s future is in doubt after his parent club made a decision on the player.

When Bournemouth published their retained and released player list, Mepham was included on the retained list.