Thornton allowed to leave

Mick McCarthy has confirmed that he will not stand in the way of Sean Thornton.

Sunderland manager Mick McCarthy has confirmed that he will not stand in the way of wantaway midfielder Sean Thornton.

Thornton's agent Lee Payne confirmed exclusively to skysports.com that the Irish star was looking for a move, and the Black Cats boss has now stated that the 21-year-old can leave.

"I want players at this club who want to play for the name on the front of the shirt, not the name on the back," said McCarthy.

"I have not received a request from Sean. If, and when, it lands on my desk I will deal with it.

"I have my opinions on all players but I don't think it's right to share them in public.

"If he [Thornton] wants to move on, we'll deal with it. The lads who are in the team are doing very well."

Meanwhile, Sunderland have confirmed that striker Kevin Kyle needs an operation on his injured hip.

The Wearsiders had hoped that rest may be enough for the Scottish international.

However, a specialist has now confirmed that an operation will be required.

"It's what we suspected and what we feared," McCarthy told Sunderland's official website.

"It was something that we tried to avoid but it was not happening for 'Kyler'.

"He couldn't keep doing what he was doing. He did it for the team and I admire him for that but it was not doing him any favours.

"When he found out he needed the op it came as a relief. He now knows what it will take to get fit and he can work at his rehab, which will be done properly."