CONFIRMED: Sunderland According to reports has made two Crutial signings from Middlesbrough and newcastle respectively arrival and medicals are scheduled as players…..

Both feature in this week’s North East Notes, as well as former Middlesbrough man Paddy McNair, who has been discussing his summer transfer.

SUNDERLAND MAN SET FOR INTERNATIONAL DECISION

Nectar Triantis has quickly settled at Hibs again after rejoining the Scottish side on loan from Sunderland late in the transfer window.

Triantis enjoyed an impressive loan spell north of the border in the second half of last season and his form caught the eye of scouts from the Greek national team, who have been watching the 21-year-old closely.

The former Central Coast Mariners man has represented Australia at Under-20 and Under-23 level but is also eligible to play for Greece.

He’s aware of the interest and is touched by the attention but is unlikely to commit to the European nation as things stand.

“But growing up in Australia I think it’s always been my dream to play for Australia. So in terms of countries, it’s sort of a mixed feeling because I could play for either so it’s still not completely decided. But yeah, my heart does have a close spot with Greece.

“But I think my heart is with Australia. I’ve always had that dream to play for Australia.”

SANDRO TONALI SURPRISES ITALY BOSS

Sandro Tonali wowed and surprised Italy boss Luciano Spalletti in his return to the international scene this week.

Tonali linked up with the Italy squad for the first time since his betting ban came to an end and was straight back into the starting XI for Friday’s game against France.

And not only was Spalletti blown away by the Newcastle man’s display in the 3-1 win, he wasn’t expecting Tonali to last the full 90 minutes, as was the case.

The highlight of Tonali’s brilliant display was his stunning back-heeled assist for Federico Dimarco’s goal.

“He put in a magnificent performance,” said Spalletti.

“We were a bit worried he wouldn’t be able to play the full 90 minutes but, in the final stages, he went on a couple of driving runs and almost got through on goal. We’ve got a great player back.”

Paddy McNair’s six-year Middlesbrough stay came to an end in the summer.

The 29-year-old then agreed a three-and-a-half year deal to move to California and play for Major League Soccer’s latest expansion franchise San Diego FC, who will join the league in 2025.

McNair will spend the first half of this season on loan at West Brom in the Championship before linking up with his new club.

And he says his move to San Diego is “not a holiday” and won’t dampen his commitment to Northern Ireland.

McNair said the experience of living and playing abroad has long been something he wanted to get during his career, but that will not come at the expense of playing for his country.

“I wouldn’t have gone if it had affected my international career,” said the former Boro and Sunderland man.

“It is a league that is improving and there are high profile players in the league and it will be a good experience…I’ve always wanted to play outside of the UK.

“I’m not going to America for a holiday. It’s still a competitive, tough league. It’s just the experience, something different