Sunderland boss Peter Reid has flashed out a warning - don't write off Niall Quinn.
The Republic of Ireland striker, 33, is receiving treatment for a back injury as his team-mates go through their paces at a pre-season training camp in northern France.
Reid has also splashed out £3.6m on French international striker Lilian Laslandes, who is set to partner Kevin Phillips in next Tuesday night's friendly against Calais Racing Club.
But the Black Cats manager insists Quinn is very much in his thoughts for next season.
He said: "People have said that Laslandes is Niall's replacement, but that is unfair.
"There is no-one quite like Niall Quinn and although he is not in France with us, he's fit and raring to go this season. Don't write him off."
Read more about Sunderland here.
Updated: 11.25 Monday, July 16
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