Five loan signings to save Sunderland from relegation

Not technically a loan, since mercurial marksman Adebayor is now a free agent, but a six month contract could suit both parties.

The Black Cats (11/10 from Coral to stay up) need firepower and, despite his current predicament, Adebayor has previously proven he is worth a punt. On his day this former Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham and Real Madrid striker can be deadly, which is why he was given so many shots at those elite sides. To boot, Big Sam knows how to handle tricky characters.

Diego Poyet

Though, this midfield prodigy could be worth the risk. A regular starter for Championship club MK Dons, the Hammers would need good reason to pluck him away, but may be intrigued to see how their young-gun fares in the top-tier with a familiar face.

Callum McManaman

Currently out of favour with Tony Pulis, wideman McManaman still possesses the magic which saw him dazzle and unlock defences, but also frustrate, for Wigan Athletic.

With current club West Bromwich Albion believed to be looking for new attacking options in January, the writing could be on the wall for this Merseysider. Still only 24, he would be a coup for the Black Cats (7/2 to finish bottom), with a permanent deal for Andros Townsend seemingly off the table.

Peter Odemwingie

The well-travelled forward has already illustrated he can hit double figures in the Premier League and could cover a variety of positions for Big Sam. Just the type of player the Mackems manager likes to invigorate.

More fashionable options could include Leicester City sharpshooter Andrej Kramaric or Liverpool’s Divock Origi, though there could be much more attractive competition for the promising poaching pair.

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