Sunderland face cash fight for Thornton

Sunderland are gearing up for a fight for young Irish star Sean Thornton after Tranmere launched an official complaint over his move to Wearside.

The Black Cats have already confirmed that the 19-year-old, who was out of contract at Prenton Park, had joined the club.

However, the Birkenhead outfit have alleged an illegal approach was made to the player - and have now lodged an official complaint with the Football League.

And they are confident that they have a strong case, with Thornton admitting he took a medical in the North-East and also trained with Peter Reid's squad before the end of last season.

The two clubs have been involved in detailed negotiations for several months over a compensation package, but have yet to reach agreement.

Now Rovers are prepared to let a tribunal rule on just how much Sunderland should pay for a player they never wanted to lose.

"If Sunderland want Sean Thornton, they will have to pay compensation and, if necessary, we will let a tribunal decide as we have a very strong case," said club secretary Mick Horton.

"The actions of Sean Thornton and Sunderland are in breach of FA and Football League regulations and we will be pursuing our complaint with them."

Sunderland insist they have done nothing wrong and have made every effort to try and agree compensation.

"Sunderland had discussions with Tranmere Rovers regarding the transfer of Sean Thornton over a number of months," said a club spokesman.

"The club made every effort to agree a compensation fee for the player, who was out of contract with Tranmere in June, and understand that the case will now go to a tribunal."