Phil Parkinson insists Ethan Robson will have a part to play for Sunderland - even if the Black Cats add another midfielder in the January transfer window.
Parkinson is looking to strengthen his squad in a number of areas this month and a central midfielder is on his list, with the Sunderland boss confirming that the club has made an enquiry about Rangers' Greg Docherty.
But he is keen to point out that academy product Robson - who returned from a loan spell with League Two Grimsby Town earlier this month - is still part of his plans.
Parkinson rates Robson highly and believes that his energy and determination to succeed can be harnessed to help Sunderland mount a promotion challenge.
"Ethan is pushing hard and his attitude since he came back [from Grimsby] has been great, and he clearly has a determination to get himself back involved," said Parkinson.
"But equally, I have to make sure that we are covered in case of injuries, suspensions, etc, which is why we are looking at midfielders in the transfer window."
Parkinson is conscious of the fact that the arrival of another central midfielder would put another hurdle between Robson and the first-team and, with the 23-year-old currently in the final six months of his contract on Wearside, it would reduce his chances of earning a new deal.
Another loan move - possibly a return to Grimsby - for the remainder of the season remains an option for Robson, but at present it seems Parkinson wants him to stay.
