Phil Parkinson has re-iterated his desire for Aiden McGeady to "move on" this summer - despite the Sunderland winger's public plea for a second chance.
The Republic of Ireland international is currently training with the Black Cats under-23s following a loan spell with Charlton Athletic last season.
McGeady enjoyed his best spell on Wearside under former boss Jack Ross, but fell out of favour with Parkinson who recently admitted it would be best for the 34-year-old to find a new club.
Despite this viewpoint from his manager, the winger expressed his interest in forcing his way back into the first-team picture at the Stadium of Light in an interview with Go Radio Football Show
However, Parkinson has seemingly slam the door shut on any chance of a potential return in his press conference ahead of Sunderland's opening league match of the season against Bristol Rovers on Saturday.
Parkinson told reporters via Zoom on Thursday afternoon: "We would like Aiden to move on.
"As I've said, I think the time is right for Aiden to move on. We've got young players in the squad who we want to give the opportunities to.
"As ever in football, players move on and younger players emerge. That's what we'd like.
"The window doesn't close till October, Aiden is injured at the moment but he needs to get himself fit and hopefully we can reach an agreement where he finds a club he can go play for which he's obviously happy with."
