Mags made Richardson bid

Ricky Sbragia has revealed that Newcastle made an enquiry for Kieran Richardson on transfer deadline day yesterday. It came just a day after Richardson played against the Magpies in the Tyne-Wear derby.

"There was an enquiry, but it was rejected, we just said no," said Sunderland's manager. "Clubs always try things on, we've had a lot of bids for players, some of them cheeky. I don't want to lose my best players."

Sunderland tried to sign Darren Bent from Tottenham before the transfer window closed at 5pm.

Sbragia said: "We think he's a good player but unfortunately it's not worked for us. He's still one on our minds for the summer."