Lee Johnson has confirmed that Morgan Feeney will leave Sunderland when his contract expires later this month.
After departing Everton last summer, the defender signed a short-term deal at the Stadium of Light and he made a bright start to life on Wearside.
The 21-year-old scored in the Lads’ 8-1 win over Aston Villa Under-21s, but his involvement was curtailed due to a knee injury sustained whilst representing the club’s development side.
Speaking to safc.com, Johnson explained the decision, whilst praising Feeney and wishing him well.
“We had a good chat with Morgan and I think he would be an excellent signing for somebody,” said the Head Coach.
“We just felt that with the strength in depth we have in that particular position, Morgan is at a time in his career where he needs to be a big fish in a small sea and find his identity.”
He added: “He will because he’s a very good player and an unbelievable lad as well.
“From what I’ve seen so far, I would recommend him, but for that short-term fix he requires, which is a lot of games, after some good conversations – with Morgan and his representatives – we decided it was best to let him crack on.”