American on Trial

Portland Timbers defender Scot Thompson is to have a two week trial at Sunderland.

McCarthy was impressed with the second-year Timber during the friendly between the two teams on July 23 and has invited the defender over as a result.

Thompson said:
"It's the greatest opportunity of my life, and I'm going to give it 110 percent .

"We're at a critical point in our season and are dealing with some injuries, so me leaving does not help, but it's a catch-22. I want to be here and help the team, but this is a chance I can't pass up."

Thompson has dual British-American citizenship and is under contract with the Timbers until next season he has started in all 19 games this season with three goals and an assist to his credit.