Sunderland winger Lynden Gooch has been discussing his future at the club following the Black Cat's play-off final success over Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday. 

The lowdown: Mr Versatile

Having started out as predominantly a right-winger with capabilities of playing on the opposite flank, Gooch has been transformed over time into the ultimate utility man.

This season, the 26-year-old USA international has featured on both wings in each of a wing forward, wide midfield and full-back capacity.

After playing 90 minutes as a right-sided full-back in the 2-0 play-off final victory at Wembley, Gooch has addressed his next move as his contract at the Stadium of Light nears its conclusion...

The latest: Gooch unsure of Sunderland future

Speaking after the match, as quoted by The Northern Echo, the four-cap American admitted to being unsure as to where his future may lie.

Gooch said: “I don’t know where I’m going to be next season so we’re going to have to wait and see. If this is my last game for Sunderland then there is not a better way to go out.

“I’ve got a meeting with him (Alex Neil) on Tuesday and we’ll see what happens. It is what it is. I’ve give everything for the club in my ten years as a pro. We’ll see what happens. If it’s my last game then happy days, I can go out on a high. If not, then I’ll continue to represent the club as best I can.

“This is my fourth time here with Sunderland playing here and it is a difficult occasion. I was trying to help the young lads as best I can. It’s not easy, it’s Wembley. It’s amazing being on the winning side. I know what it’s like being on the losing side. It’s an amazing feeling for sure.”

The verdict: Sunderland should keep him

Signed in 2012 from Santa Cruz Breakers, Gooch broke into the first team at Sunderland in 2016/17 and has since represented the club in the Premier League, Championship and League One.

A superb servant at the Stadium of Light, the American was recently praised by ex-Sunderland striker Stephen Elliott for a 'terrific' display against Cambridge United, during which the 26-year-old provided one assist and made seven key passes in an 8.1-rated performance from Sofascore.

Overall this season, Gooch provided six assists in 45 appearances, and he is likely to remain an integral part of Alex Neil's plans should the club and player come to an agreement regarding a new deal. Given how much he has contributed on Wearside, hopefully the Black Cats can persuade him to stay for another while yet.

In other news, James Copley was left stunned by this development ahead of the play-off final