SAFC enquiry for defender rebuffed

Mick McCarthy is today reported to have been thwarted in his attempts to sign a new defender.

Sheffield Wednesday boss Chris Turner - goalkeeper for Sunderland for a spell in the mid-1980s - spoke today of how a "top first divison club" had made enquiries about the availability of Owls' defender Graeme Lee - and the Northern Echo reports that it understands the club in question was Sunderland.

Middlesbrough-born Lee, 25, moved from Hartlepool to Wednesday on a free transfer in June 2003 and has made 31 appearences for the Owls this season, scoring four goals in the process. He was also named in last season's Division Three PFA team of the season.

But Turner doesn't want to let Lee move. He said "I believe he's been our most consistent player this season. If we start letting go what I believe to be our future, then it would be time to close the shop."

Lee is said to be a centre-half who brings the ball out of defence well and has good passing abilities, with his height giving him an advantage in both his own box and his opponents' penalty area.

Sunderland seal loan deal for Cooper

Sunderland have completed the signing of Wolverhampton Wanders mid-fielder Kevin Cooper on a three-month loan.

The deal will see Cooper, 28, link up with the Black Cats until April 3rd 2004.

Commenting on the deal, Kevin Cooper said:
"I'm delighted to have come to a club of this size. I immediately got a feel for the place, I've watched Sunderland's progress this season, you tend to keep an eye on the bigger clubs. Sunderland have picked up at the end of the year and now seems a great time to be joining. I knew the Stadium of Light was fantastic because I've played here before."

Cooper began his career at Derby County before signing from Stockport County, playing a total of 187 games. He moved to Wimbledon in March 2001, scoring 10 goals in 40 appearances.

He joined Wolves just prior to the transfer deadline in March 2002.

Manager Mick McCarthy expressed his delight at the completion of the move:
"Kevin is a really good footballer who can operate on the left side and that is a position we have been looking at for most of the season. He has a lot of experience and is comfortable on the ball and will be a great addition to our squad."