O’Neill denies link to Villa defenders

Martin O’Neill has denied that he is set to swoop for Aston Villa’s defensive pair, James Collins & Stephen Warnock, despite incessant press speculation.


The Villans pair, both of whom were signed by O’Neill during his spell at Villa Park, have been constantly linked with a reunion with their former boss.


However, the Black Cat’s supremo has been quick to deny that he will make a move for either player, re-enforcing the importance of bringing in attackers first and foremost.


Speaking to The Shields Gazette, O’Neill said:


“Undoubtedly, what is focusing my mind more than anything else is the need to strengthen our attacking options.


“We have lost Nicklas Bendtner after his loan, we have lost Asamoah Gyan from our squad list, and we need to bring in strikers.’


O’Neill continued:


“There may be something I can tell you very soon, but I really don`t want to say anything until players are actually signed.’