STEVE EVANS insists he has replacements in mind if Sunderland refuse to extend Liam Bridcutt's loan deal until the end of the season.
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| Evans (left) wants to keep Bridcutt at Leeds until the end of the season |
Midfielder Bridcutt, 24, has greatly impressed since joining the Elland Road club from Sunderland in November.
The Scotland cap has made seven appearances under manager Evans, coinciding with an upturn in results for the West Yorkshire club.
Leeds originally agreed a loan with Sunderland that runs out after their Championship clash with MK Dons tomorrow.
And Evans insists that while he remains hopeful of keeping Bridcutt for the rest of the season he is preparing alternative targets should Sunderland retain their man.
“I can’t say I don’t have any concern about it but I’m not panicking either,” Evans told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“I know we’ve got a gentleman’s agreement with Sunderland and I’d like to think that will stay in place.
"But I know that could change if someone makes them or Liam a massive offer. If that happens then I’ll shake his hand and wish him well.
“Out of everyone, I’ve probably got the least control over this.
"A lot of it’s down to Sunderland and (manager) Sam Allardyce but I’ve asked Liam if he wants to stay and he’s told me ‘100 per cent’.
“You can’t praise his performances highly enough and he’s done what I said he’d do when I signed him. But I’m aware of one or two other players out there who could do the same job for me if that’s how it goes.
"I’m not saying I want to go down that road and I’d love Liam to stay but we’re not going to get caught out.”
Leeds head into tomorrow's home clash with MK Dons unbeaten in six games.
The draw both fixtures between Christmas Day and New Years Day, away to Nottingham Forest and at home to Derby.
Star right-back Sam Byram, who can also play in midfield, may also leave the club in January.
The 22-year-old is out of contract this summer and could agree a pre-contract agreement with a new club ahead of a free transfer in July - although his next side would have to pay Leeds compensation for their academy product.
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