Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has claimed that he is yet to discuss a potential permanent deal for loan striker Nicklas Bendtner.

The Denmark international moved to the Stadium of Light last summer on a season-long loan from Arsenal and with the Gunners reportedly keen to offload the frontman permanently, Bendtner's future has been thrown into limbo.

"His future? I really don't know," said O'Neill. "I've not even discussed it with him. But I think he realises it's a big season for him.

"He's been sent out on loan to us from Arsenal who have decided not to use him this season. Perhaps that would have been a blow to his confidence, although perhaps not."

The 24-year-old, who scored the winner in the Black Cats' 1-0 victory over Liverpool on Saturday, has been linked with a switch to Hannover.