SEAN THORNTON has revealed his determination to stay on Wearside and help transform Sunderland from promotion candidates into Premiership certainties.

The talented midfielder has struggled with his fitness this season and also fell out of favour with manager Mick McCarthy. He has spent most of the campaign in the stands witnessing the Black Cats climb up the Championship table.

Thornton looked destined to leave Sunderland this month with top-flight outfit Everton one of those monitoring his situation.

However, following a number of injuries to key players over the festive period, the Irishman was handed the opportunity to shine for the first team again on New Year's Day.

And now Thornton has spoken of his delight at being back in manager Mick McCarthy's plans and the enigmatic playmaker is desperate to help third placed Sunderland secure a spot back in the Premiership come May.

"I've had the opportunity to watch this Sunderland team from every angle - both as a spectator and a player - and I've been very impressed," said Thornton.

"The football has been good, the results have kept us in touch at the top and I just want to be involved in what can be a very successful season for us. Sunderland are a Premiership club and it's where we deserve to be. We were really disappointed missing out last season and there is a feeling this is going to be our year.

"We'd like to win the league but if we finish in the top two that will be the job done. Second would be fine but we don't want to be worrying about the play-offs again. That's not ideal for anyone. Automatic promotion is the aim and we're on course with the football we're producing week in, week out."

Thornton scored on his return to the side at Preston on January 1 and has played in the two subsequent matches against Gillingham and Crystal Palace - ending a near four month exile from league football.

The 21-year-old is hoping to retain his place in McCarthy's side for the televised trip to Derby on Sunday and is desperate to make a starting spot his own.

The Rams started the season poorly but have had a massive turnaround in recent weeks and are only three points adrift of a play-off place themselves.

Thornton said: "Derby are a good side and I don't think anyone should be surprised that they've made a positive move during the last few weeks.

"I'm not too bothered about them but I know what they're capable of doing on their day. I'm more concerned about the way we go about doing our job."

Meanwhile, Sunderland have been told by Jon Stead's agent that the striker is unlikely to be leaving Blackburn this month.

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