Seven Sunderland young prospects released

The players in the club’s Under-18s and Under-21s squads who will be free agents from June 30 are Ryan Ellison, Ross Colquhoun, Jassem Sukar, Tom McNamee, Peter Burke, Joel Dixon and Andrew Cartwright.

Lee Congerton, the club’s sporting director, said: “The players have been with us for a number of years and have developed their footballing ability and education, standing them in good stead to continue their football careers.

“Everyone at the club wishes them the best of luck and success for their future careers.”

Goalkeeper Dixon spent a month on loan at Hartlepool United at the start of last season, while Hartlepool-born defender Sukar has also spent time training with the League Two side.

The former Manor College of Technology pupil also featured in a reserve match for Pools.