Henderson vows to stay at Sunderland

Highly rated Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson says he has no plans to leave the club despite reports linking him with a summer move to Manchester United.

Henderson, 20, has earned plaudits this season with his performances for the Black Cats, and has also won his first senior England cap in the friendly against France last October.

Henderson's rise has led to speculation of a possible move, with Manchester United reported to be heading the queue for the youngster's services.

However the player said he had no plans to leave his home-town club.

"It has been another great season for me. I have had some ups and downs along the way, but it's all part of my development. I have coped okay with the second season thing," Henderson told the Journal newspaper.

"I'm improving every day, that is what I'm aiming to do. I'm enjoying myself at Sunderland, I'm not looking to leave.

"I'm young and I'm playing for Sunderland. It's something I love doing. I just want to keep doing that, keep improving, keep getting better as a player."

Meanwhile Sunderland have begun contract talks with French midfielder Steed Malbranque over a new deal.

The 31-year-old's contract expires at the end of next season but chairman Niall Quinn confirmed the club want Malbranque to extend his stay.

"We have opened negotiations over a new contract with Steed. He is a great asset to the club," Quinn said.