Delap deal still on
19 Oct 2006 - 11:51:12
Sunderland have reassured Rory Delap that his permanent move to Stoke City has not been jeopardised by the broken leg he suffered on Tuesday night.
Delap suffered the injury playing for the Potters against the Black Cats, following a challenge by former team-mate Robbie Elliott, but despite the fact that the 30-year-old could miss the remainder of the season, he is still expected to sign a permanent deal at the Britannia Stadium.
The Republic of Ireland international began a three-month loan last week with a view to a permanent move when the transfer window re-opens in January.
"We had a gentleman's agreement with Stoke that Rory would go on loan with a permanent deal in place and Stoke have been true to their word," Black Cats boss Roy Keane told the club's official website.
"Rory will do his rehab work there - he is still on loan there - and he will become a full-time Stoke player.
"The injury was just one of those unfortunate accidents. Robbie just nicked the ball ahead of him and caught him on the follow through.
"It's disappointing for everybody - especially for Rory."