Byrne turns down Scunthorpe

Sunderland defender Cliff Byrne has turned down a permanent move to Scunthorpe.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international had spent an impressive three months on loan at Glanford Park, prompting manager Brian Laws to try and secure his services on a permanent basis.

But Byrne, who has been offered a one-year contract by Sunderland boss Howard Wilkinson when his current deal expires in the summer, has decided to fight for his place in the Black Cats side.

Laws said: “We tried to cover every angle and the club agreed a fee with Sunderland which is something I didn’t think we could do so I thank the board for that.

“The wages were not a problem, the player has looked at it and decided there is still an opportunity for him to get into the first team at Sunderland. The possible relegation would enhance his chances of getting into the team, so he feels waiting for the next two months is worth it.

“The player does not want us to turn our attentions to someone else because he feels there is still an opportunity for him to come here. I can see myself and this football club working with Cliff Byrne in the near future.”