McCarthy set to lose Phillips

Phillips looks to be on his way

Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy has hinted that the future of Kevin Phillips could be sorted out soon.

Phillips, who is looking for a new club following Sunderland's relegation from the Premiership, has been handed the number 19 shirt by McCarthy for the coming season.

Skipper Michael Gray, Thomas Sorensen, Gavin McCann, Claudio Reyna and Tore Andre Flo have also been given high numbers, suggesting they could also be heading out the door soon.

"As far as Kevin, Thomas and Gavin are concerned, for example, the squad numbers simply reflect the fact that these players are in on-going discussions with various clubs and the likelihood is that they won't be at the football club that much longer," McCarthy said.

"I've got to accept that. I've spoken to the players involved in changes in numbers before going public with the squad list and they don't have a problem with it."

Phillips too pricey for Rangers

Marcus Stewart takes over the number 10 shirt worn by Phillips in previous seasons.

Phillips has been linked with Rangers, Portsmouth and Middlesbrough in recent weeks, but they have all been put off by Sunderland's valuation of the England forward.

Sorensen, a target for Aston Villa, has seen his number one shirt handed to Estonian Mart Poom and will wear 25 if he is called upon.

Villa swoop for McCann

McCann, who has attracted interest from Villa and Everton, has swapped his number eight for 41.

Gray's number three shirt has gone to Northern Ireland international George McCartney, while Jason McAteer has taken over Claudio Reyna's number four.

Kevin Kyle will replace record signing Flo in the number nine shirt.

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