England striker Peter Crouch flew into the north-east this morning to discuss a £12m switch to Sunderland.

Steve Bruce was this afternoon confirmed as Sunderland’s new manager after lengthy negotiations finally came to a successful conclusion.

Sunderland hope to finally complete negotiations to make Steve Bruce their new manager today.

Talks were continuing this morning between Sunderland and Steve Bruce as the two parties looked to thrash out the finer details of his appointment as manager.

Maik Taylor is aiming to maintain a remarkable record against Ukraine tomorrow.