Sorensen saddened by Reid sacking

Sunderland goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen insists he is as saddened as the rest of his team-mates by the sacking of Peter Reid.

The Denmark international, who dislocated an elbow in the 3-1 defeat by Arsenal – Reid’s last match in charge – believes he owes a lot of his success to the departing manager.

Sorensen has distanced himself from critical comments attributed to him in the Danish press where he is quoted as claiming the club were right to sack Reid.

He said today: “I have really enjoyed working with Peter. He gave me the chance to come over to Sunderland as a new keeper and he has had a significant impact on my career.

“I was shocked to hear of the news and like the rest of the lads was saddened.

“Peter has been a great influence on my career and I would like to thank him and wish him good luck in whatever he does.”

Sunderland player-coach Niall Quinn yesterday revealed the players were “devastated” by Monday night’s news and was doing his best to lift the spirits of those players not on international duty who are training with the club.