SAFC to investigate Oster breach of discipline

Sunderland will hold their own investigation into the alleged incident involving John Oster at Leeds United's Christmas party.

Black Cats winger Oster, on loan to Leeds, was found guilty of a breach of discipline by the Elland Road club.

A Sunderland spokesperson said: "Leeds have made us aware of their investigation and the actions they have taken concerning John Oster. Sunderland will now carry out its own investigation to determine the next course of action."

Oster, 26, is in the second month of a loan contract at the Yorkshire club, which is due to expire next week.

He had already been fined by Leeds and warned about his future conduct after being arrested in Durham two weeks ago.

See also "Leeds cut short Oster loan".

Leeds cut short Oster's loan

Leeds United have sent John Oster back to Sunderland early from his loan spell at Elland Road.

Oster was arrested outside a Durham nightclub just prior to Christmas although he was released with a caution, but then the player was in trouble again after an unspecified incident at United's Christmas party.

LUFC gaffer Kevin Blackwell said today, "Enough is enough, whilst I am in charge I will not have players besmirching the club's reputation. The player has stepped out of line and I want us to be seen to do something about it.

"When people write about my players on the back pages I want it to be for what they're doing right on the pitch and not for anything else.

"Leeds United will not put up with shenanigans from any players."

After the initial incident in Durham mid-December, Blackwell revealed that Oster had been subject to the strongest disciplinary measures the club could take; this latest incident has obviously taken the manager's patience past breaking point.

SAFC have yet to comment on Oster's behaviour or his early return in disgrace.

Mick relishing Palace return to SoL

Mick McCarthy says he can't wait for Sunderland to get their chance to avenge their defeat to Crystal Palace in the play-off semi's last May, when the London team return to the Stadium of Light for the FA Cup third round (Sat 8th Jan, 3pm ko).

Mick said today, "It'll be a good test for us. Given the recent history between the sides it'll be an interesting game - I'm looking forward to it. I'm sure it'll be one our fans will relish too."

Palace defender Danny Granville, subbed in the play-off semi, said "It was a great night and a run in The FA Cup can help us with our confidence in the league. It was a really physical encounter and I expect more of the same. They are doing well in the Championship and there will be a bit of needle for what happened."

Gary Breen, Liam Lawrence and Julio Arca are all expected to miss Saturday's match with injuries, although Carl Robinson is hoped to be fit.

The referee for next Saturday's cup game is Rob Styles; so far this season he's officiated over 11 Premiership games, 3 Championship games, one League One game and one League Cup game - where Palace beat Charlton 2-1 back in October. The last time Mr Styles reffed a game involving us, it was our 2-0 away defeat to West Ham in March 2003.

* All clubs who win their third round games receive £40,000 from the prize fund.

* The draw for the fourth round will be live on BBC2, BBC Radio Five Live, and Sky Sports at 1.30pm on Monday 10th January

SAFC to observe silence for Tsunami victims

Sunderland AFC is to join all Football League clubs in holding a period of silence to remember the victims of the South East Asian earthquake disaster.

Clubs will observe a period of silence prior to kick off at the New Years Day and Bank Holiday Monday fixtures, with the Black Cats giving supporters the opportunity to pay their respects at the Stadium of Light prior to the Gillingham game on Monday 3rd January 2005.

Sunderland AFC will also be holding a bucket collection inside the Stadium prior to next Saturday's FA Cup 3rd round tie with Premiership side Crystal Palace, with all proceeds being donated to the disaster relief appeal set up to help survivors of the tragedy.

Striker to go out on loan

Black Cats striker Neil Teggart is to join Coca Cola League side Scunthorpe United on a month's loan.

The 20-year-old Northern Ireland youth international is set to link up with the League Two leaders today and has been given permission by SAFC to play in the FA Cup.

Burnley away game rescheduled

Sunderland AFC today confirmed that the forthcoming Coca Cola Championship fixture against Burnley at Turf Moor has been selected for live transmission by Sky TV.

The game, which was originally scheduled to take place on Saturday 5th March, will now take place on Friday 4th March, kick off 7:45pm.