Testing time for Anton

SUNDERLAND are closing in on West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand. The England U-21 international yesterday underwent medical tests, with manager Roy Keane confident of landing a player who could cost around £8m.

Keane said: “Anton is up today for a medical and we hope to get things tied up quickly.”

Ferdinand’s arrival is a reward for Keane’s protracted pursuit as he attempts to complete his ninth summer signing.

However, even if he does complete his move last night, Ferdinand will not be involved in tonight’s Carling Cup trip to Nottingham Forest and could also miss out on Sunday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Manchester City as he has a slight hamstring strain.