O'Neill admits keeping Sess will be hard

Martin O'Neill has admitted that whilst he is understandably keen to keep hold of star man Stephane Sessegnon, he faces a fight to do so.

Unsurprisingly, the Benin international has been heavily linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light following his sublime second half of the season under the Ulsterman's watchful eye.

Any number of clubs, including league champions Manchester City and Premier League giants Arsenal have been linked with a move for the 28 year-old.

O'Neill however is incredibly keen to keep hold of the tricky winger-cum-forward. Speaking to The Journal, O'Neill said:

"I would love to give a 'hands-off` message but I wish it was as easy as that.

"If I was to say 'You cannot touch him` then I might have to come back here two days later and say 'sorry',' admitted O'Neill.

The gaffer also made clear that the former PSG attacker is over the worst of his homesickness issues now:

"He texts in perfect English now! He understands,' joked O'Neill.

"If some families can`t settle in areas or countries then you have to take it into consideration.'

Sessegnon bagged seven league goals for the Black Cats last season, making him the club's second-highest scorer in the Premier League, one behind loanee Nicklas Bendtner.

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