Martin O'Neill dismisses rumours of a January clearout

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has denied that there are plans of a mass clearout in January.

Rumours have been circulating that suggest O'Neill is planning on making a mark at his new club by clearing out certain players from his squad.

However, O'Neill has insisted that the club are in no position to be able to let players go next month.

"I don't think we're in a position at this minute, on a more general note, to be letting people go in January, particularly given our situation," said the former Villa boss.

"I think from that viewpoint I just want everybody to try and knuckle down, get on with it and see where we are in the summertime."

O'Neill replaced Steve Bruce as Sunderland boss on December 3.