Former Sunderland star Don Hutchison is concerned for local Northeast talent.

Hutchison wonders where Newcastle United's French recruitment drive leaves local kids.

He told the Sunday Sun: "Look, it's hard to disagree with Newcastle's policy to have, what is it, 11,12 or 13 and more French-speaking players in the squad.

"But it is a worry for young local boys who want to play for their teams. It would be great to see Sunderland and Newcastle start games with say six local lads in the XI. I'm not sure when we would ever see that.

"The French boys, to be fair, look good. Moussa Sissoko has made a brilliant and instant impact. We all know that Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Afra are top drawer and we'll see how the rest settle."