Sunderland AFC news: £2m signing on the move, Emmanuel Eboue chance, Tyne-Wear derby focus

Right-back Matthews has joined Championship side Bristol City on loan until the end of the season, with a view to a permanent switch next summer.

The Welsh international hasn't made a first-team appearance since August and City boss Lee Johnson hopes to get the defender's career back on track.

"Adam Matthews has lost his way a bit since going to Sunderland, but not long ago he was marking (Lionel) Messi for Celtic," said Johnson.

Matthews' exit has been sanctioned by Sunderland due to the imminent arrival of Emmanuel Eboue on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

Eboue's capture is due to be confirmed by Sunderland after the ex-Arsenal right-back has spent almost a month training with the Black Cats.

The 32-year-old could feature for the Under-21s against Everton at the Stadium of Light tonight (kick-off 7.45pm) as he further boosts his match-fitness.

Several first-teamers could also feature, with Sunderland now without a game for a fortnight before they return to Premier League action in the Tyne-Wear derby.

That St James's Park clash looks ever-more crucial for two clubs in the thick of the relegation dogfight and Sunderland defender Younes Kaboul admits it's a defining encounter for the Black Cats.

“There’s some important games left and the one coming is the most important for the fans, and for us also," said Kaboul.