Pelter signs for Black Cats

Sunderland have signed Under 20 New Zealand international Jack Pelter on a short-term contract.

Pelter, who is the captain of the Under 20 team, has put pen-to-paper on a month-long deal with the Black Cats, in order for his fitness to be monitored.

The 20-year-old played in pre-season for Sunderland, in games against Scunthorpe and Berwick Rangers, but suffered an ankle injury while playing in the Under 20 World Cup this summer and has not featured since.

Sunderland manager Roy Keane is interested in bringing in the centre-back on a full-time basis, but needs to be reassured about his fitness before committing to a longer contract.

"Jack has done well since he came to the club but he has a slight injury, we're looking at it," Keane told the club's official website.

"We've only signed him for a month, we're checking his medical stuff and we don't expect any problems. Hopefully, he will be part of our reserve team for the next few months and add competition to the squad."

push it

Meanwhile Keane is cautiously optimistic winger Carlos Edwards will be fit to return against Reading following a hamstring tear. The Trinidad and Tobago international has been sidelined for three-and-a-half weeks after sustaining the injury against Birmingham City.

The 28-year-old has now returned to light training, but Keane is wary of rushing him back too soon.

"We hope Carlos has a chance for Reading," said Keane. "He's done a bit of light training this week but you have to be careful with a hamstring [injury] - anyone will tell you that.