Martin O'Neill determined to keep Stephane Sessegnon

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has praised Stephane Sessegnon and claimed that the midfielder is happy at the club.

Rcenet speculation has linked Sessegnon with a move away from the Stadium of Light but O'Neill has revealed his desire to retain the Benin international's services.

The former Aston Villa manager told The Journal: "Sess has been playing brilliantly.

"I have read he's unhappy the whole time, but he couldn't be happier, believe it or not. I don't think he can play like that if he's unhappy.

"He's in great form and I'm sure I won't stop the speculation no matter what I try. We want to keep him at the football club because he's been pretty brilliant."

Sessegnon arrived at Sunderland last year from French club Paris Saint-Germain.