By Michael Ramsay

Sunderland

If ever there is an example of how just one year can almost wreck a player’s reputation in football, look no further than former Basle starlet Mohamed Salah. Poached by Jose Mourinho in an £11million deal last January, the Egyptian forward has now found himself ostracised at Stamford Bridge and the gaggle of elite clubs that were after his signature last winter have all but disappeared.

Instead, Gus Poyet has been accredited with an interest in the player who has made just three Premier League appearances thus far this term, as he looks to bolster his wide options. Mourinho has remained adamant that Stamford Bridge is on permanent lockdown during the transfer window - apparently that didn’t apply to the 42 year old Mark Schwarzer who recently left for Leicester City.

The Northern Echo: BRIGHT OUTLOOK: Jozy Altidore

Likelihood rating: *

Some positive news for Sunderland supporters will be that surrounding Jozy Altidore’s future. After notching just one Premier League in 42 appearances for the club, the goal-shy centre-forward looks to be on his way out of the club with a return to the MLS seemingly on the cards. Toronto FC have confirmed their interest in rescuing the USA international from his Premier League nightmare.

Likelihood rating: ****

Newcastle

When Alan Pardew was offered the manager’s position just over four years ago, not only were the Newcastle supporters still in mourning for the fallen Chris Hughton but they were appalled that a man whose most recent job had been in League One was to be his successor. Paul Tisdale has somehow emerged as a contender for the head coach position at St. James’ Park, despite managing in the nether regions of League Two with Exeter City. Having been with the side for over seven years, he is the longest-serving manager in English League Football and has now been installed as a shock second favourites by several bookmakers. Expect the unexpected.

Likelihood rating: **

The Northern Echo: Shola Ameobi

It’s happening - Shola Ameobi is back at Newcastle United. With every day, it appears as though he is edging ever closer to the inevitable return following his release from Turkish minnows Gaziantep BB. The man who spent 15 years at the club is only back at the training ground to keep his fitness up, and possibly cast a watchful glance over his brother, as he looks to make a move to the MLS.

Likelihood rating: ***

Middlesbrough

Czech centre-half Tomas Kalas looks set for his Middlesbrough bow this weekend against Reading. While his loan deal from Chelsea hasn’t been confirmed, it has been mooted that everything will be signed, sealed and delivered in time for the crunch Championship clash. Kalas deputised for captain John Terry in the decisive 2-0 victory at Anfield last April, performing remarkably well as Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge were left frustrated. Boro might have themselves a real find here.

Likelihood rating: ****