Sebastian Coates looks set to make his loan at Sunderland permanent for around £4 million. Leicester City were also rumoured to be interested in the central defender after being impressed by his performance against them towards the end of last season, but Sunderland appear to have won the race. Much was expected of the 6ft 5ins Uruguayan when he first arrived on Merseyside back in 2011, but a series of injuries and lack of first team opportunities have restricted his progress. Coates similarly struggled for much of his time at Sunderland, however he was heroic during the final few weeks of the season as the Blacks Cats narrowly escaped the drop for the third season running. Prior to that run of form, it appeared unlikely that Coates would stay on Wearside as he struggled to shift the first choice pairing of Wes Brown and John OShea. However, Dick Advocaats arrival and injury to Wes Brown gave the Uruguayan his chance which he duly snapped up. Coates failed to achieve a great deal during his time at Liverpool, though his stunning scissor kick goal at QPR back in the 2011/12 season stands out as a particular highlight. Sunderland fans will be hoping Coates can build on the form he produced at the back end of last season to kick on and fulfil his potential. Story source: The Sunderland Echo.
