Henderson going nowhere

Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson has no intention of leaving the club during the summer. The 20-year-old's blossoming reputation, fuelled by a first senior England cap, has alerted potential suitors to his talent with Manchester United rumoured to be among those monitoring his situation. But Henderson told the Journal: "I'm improving every day, that is what I'm aiming to do. I'm enjoying myself at Sunderland, I'm not looking to leave." He added: "I'm playing every week in the Premier League and that's all I have ever dreamed of doing. "I'm young and I'm playing for Sunderland. It's something I love doing. I just want to keep doing that, keep improving, keep getting better as a player." Henderson was catapulted into the first-team picture after impressing boss Steve Bruce in training during the first few weeks of the then new boss' time on Wearside. He has been virtually ever-present since forcing his way into the starting line-up, and while his manager admits there have been times when he might have been rested for his own sake had injuries not taken their toll on the squad, he remains a key man. Meanwhile, chairman Niall Quinn has confirmed that the Black Cats have opened talks with Frenchman Steed Malbranque over a new contract. The popular 31-year-old's existing deal is due to expire at the end of next season. Speaking at a talk-in with fans in South Shields on Monday night, Quinn said: "We have opened negotiations over a new contract with Steed. He is a great asset to the club."

Source: PA