Bendtner exits under a cloud

Arsenal loanee Nicklas Bendtner has returned to the Emirates following the conclusion of his loan spell at the Stadium of Light.

The controversial striker managed just eight league goals in 25 starts for the Black Cats after signing on a season-long loan from the Gunners.

Bendtner, 24, was not included in Martin O’Neill’s matchday squad yesterday as the gaffer looked to next season with his selection.

When asked afterwords why the Danish international had not been included, O’Neill’s curt was response that he ‘chose not to pick him’.

A colourful season for Bendtner off the field ended with a discussion with the police as he drove away from the game.

Bendtner, who accompanied Lee Cattermole on his car-wreaking spree and saw his credit card declined in Denmark when buying pizza, was spoken to by police for ‘erratic’ driving in Boldon after yesterday’s game.

The striker has made his feelings about a return to Arsenal clear so a move away from the Premier League looks likely. The big forward won’t be remembered for his goals but his bizarre behaviour away from the pitch.

Good luck Nicklas.