Republic of Ireland international Aiden McGeady has been told he can leave Sunderland in January following reports of a training ground incident earlier this week.

Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson confirmed in a press conference today (Thursday) that he informed McGeady he will be on the move in the New Year.

Parkinson said: "We've spoken to Aiden about January, it's not one particular incident. I wanted to tell Aiden and his agent so we can plan for January as well.

"It is a big decision but I'm confident it's the right decision for the club. Conversations between managers and players have to stay private. We want to stay fair to Aiden and give him that time.

"I feel the best way forward is to find a solution and move forward in January with the players who will be here."

The 33-year-old, who was named Sunderland’s Player of the Year last season, is out of contract in the summer.

McGeady has scored four goals in 15 appearances in League One this season but he was left on the bench for last weekend's loss to Gillingham.