Duncan Watmore has had a long affiliation with Sunderland after coming through the club's academy system but it is possible that the two parties will go their separate ways this summer.

The winger's contract is up at the end of the season and after starting just six league games, despite being in League One, it appears that Phil Parkinson may look elsewhere for attacking options.

It is a fall from grace for the 26-year-old who first impressed in the Premier League years, but injuries have taken their toll and Watmore has never been able to sustain a run of good form in the team.

Despite that, former player Kevin Phillips still has faith in him. Phillips argues that he possesses the necessary quality to serve the Black Cats well and deserves to be rewarded with a new contract, though he did also register concern about his fitness issues.

However, he seems to be in the minority when fans' opinions are considered, as they firmly believe that Watmore has not done enough to warrant a new deal.

That viewpoint is a perfectly understandable position to take given the player has made just 87 appearances for the Black Cats in six years, and doesn't appear to be reaching a point where he can stay injury free any time soon.

The point raised about wasting money on his wages is particularly important, as Sunderland cannot afford to do that in League One, let alone if they were promoted and competing in the Championship next season.

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Some supporters have taken aim at Phillips for his opinion, suggesting that it is an indication that he is not fit to be manager - as some fans previously called for him to replace Parkinson.

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