Murphy on the move

Sunderland have allowed keeper Joe Murphy to join Walsall on loan.

With Andy Oakes requiring an operation and loanee John Ruddy set to return to Everton after this weekend's clash with Doncaster Rovers, Paul Merson has moved for former West Brom man Murphy.

The deal is initially for a month and the Irishman is well known to Saddlers fans after making 27 appearances for the club last term.

Sunderland have Kelvin Davis installed as number one with promising youngster Ben Alnwick now taking over as deputy.

The Black Cats have also extended Grant Leadbitter's loan spell with Rotherham United and allowed the midfielder, so impressive for England's Under-19 side earlier in the year, to play for the Yorkshire side in the FA Cup.

Mick McCarthy is focusing on the North East derby with Newcastle United on Sunday but feels he has adequate cover to allow the duo to pursue first team football elsewhere.