Le Bris optimistic about a deal extension for Neil

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has provided an update on the club's ongoing contract talks with midfielder Dan Neil, who has entered the final 12 months of his current deal.

- by Sport Reporter

Neil could leave for nothing next summer if no agreement is reached, but Le Bris remains optimistic that a solution can still be found before the player - team captain last season - can technically sign for another club in January.

"It's the normal life of a player and a club," Le Bris said.

"It is always a shared decision in the end. If we can't find a solution and he stays, then I, as a manager, will be happy because he is a good player and a good person. He is really well-connected with the project.

"Then at the end of the season, if he has to leave, then he will leave if we can't find any other solution. I still think there is a chance of progress [over a contract], though. I am still optimistic."