SUNDERLAND'S hopes of signing Michael Chopra have been dashed by the Newcastle striker's decision to join League One side Barnsley on a month's loan.

Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy is an avowed admirer of the England Under-21 international and tried to sign him on a temporary basis midway through last season.

That approach was turned down but, with Newcastle currently awash with striking talent, McCarthy was ready to test the water with another approach to Sunderland's North-East neighbours.

The former Republic of Ireland boss spent most of the summer tracking striking talent but, after missing out on David Connolly and Nathan Blake, his attention turned back towards the highly-rated Chopra.

The Newcastle striker is understood to have been aware of McCarthy's long-standing interest, but has opted to move to South Yorkshire for the guarantee of first-team football.

At Sunderland, Chopra would have spent much of his time battling with Stephen Elliott for a place on the bench.

But, at Barnsley, he will all but assured of his place in the starting line-up as he begins to prepare for a future away from St James' Park.

McCarthy's need for a new frontman has subsided somewhat thanks to Kevin Kyle's recovery from the hip problem that has hampered his start to the season.

The Scotland international opened his account in Tuesday night's Carling Cup win over Chester, and is likely to feature in Scotland's World Cup qualifiers with Spain and Slovenia next month.

His partnership with Marcus Stewart is already reaping rewards, but McCarthy is aware that he remains just one injury away from a major problem.

Elliott's potential is unquestionable, but the 20-year-old would struggle to lead the Sunderland line should either Kyle or Stewart be sidelined for a prolonged period.

McCarthy will continue to consider his options and could opt to make a renewed bid for Stockport striker Luke Beckett after his initial approaches were rebuffed earlier this week.

Hartlepool striker Adam Boyd is also under consideration, although the Sunderland boss is unlikely to be rushed into a hasty decision while his first-choice pairing remain among the goals.

Meanwhile, midfielder Carl Robinson has insisted that the visit of Championship leaders Wigan will bring the best out of Sunderland tomorrow.

McCarthy's side slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Plymouth last weekend and, with just one win from four games, find themselves in the bottom half of the table.

But, after failing to his top gear at Home Park, Robinson is confident the Black Cats will pile on the misery for a Wigan side who slipped to a surprise defeat at Grimsby this week.

"On Saturday, probably only one or two people could say they contributed enough," said Robinson. "But that is water under the bridge now and we have to look forward.

"We have to look forward to Wigan coming to the stadium because if you don't enjoy playing against the team at the top of the table, you'll never enjoy your football."