Moyes urges Pickford to remain at Sunderland

Cape Town - Sunderland manager David Moyes believes it would be a mistake for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to move to a club where he sits on the bench.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper's performances for the relegated Black Cats has reportedly drawn the attention of other Premier League clubs.

However, Moyes doesn't think moving away from the Championship-bound club in order to be a back-up in the top flight would be a good career move for Pickford.

“At the moment, I really wouldn’t know,” Moyes told the press when asked about Pickford's future, according to the Sunderland Echo. “Obviously it’s up to the club.

“If Jordan was to go elsewhere and not be the number one, that wouldn’t be good for him because that would affect his progress.

“If I was Jordan I wouldn’t do that, I’d want to be playing regularly but again Sunderland hold his contract and Jordan can’t go anywhere unless we decide to let it happen.

“You can see what he does for us with the saves he makes. He’s been outstanding from day one.”

Moyes previously insisted that the club's inability to sign the right players led to their relegation from the Premier League.

The Black Cats' relegation was confirmed on Saturday when they lost 1-0 to Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light, bringing to an end their 10-year stay in the top flight.

Moyes was appointed only six weeks before the transfer window closed, and with limited funds available, was unable to get the right personnel through the doors.