Sunderland boss Chris Coleman fears losing top goalscorer Lewis Grabban in January if parent club Bournemouth come calling

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Chris Coleman says Sunderland are powerless to prevent Bournemouth recalling top goalscorer Lewis Grabban in January - but he is desperately hoping for no contact from the Premier League club.

The Cherries inserted a clause in the striker's season-long loan deal which allows them to cut short his stay at the Stadium of Light.

Were Bournemouth to receive a transfer offer for Grabban in the new year then they could look to sell, robbing new Black Cats boss Coleman of a player who has scored 10 times this season.

Chris Coleman says Sunderland are powerless to stop Bournemouth recalling Lewis Grabban

Bournemouth can cut short the striker's loan spell at the Stadium of Light in January

'There is nothing we could do about that,' said Coleman, who has limited funds to spend in January.

'But as far as I understand there has been no indication that will be the case. 

'I think I am correct in saying Lewis is happy here, he has done a very good job, scored good goals, very important goals. He is very important to us.

'But there is nothing we can do, it will be up to Bournemouth. 

'As I sit here, I hope Lewis is here for the rest of the season, of course, like any other Sunderland fan and all the signs from the player are good.

'He enjoys his football, he has been scoring and hopefully that will continue.'

Grabban has scored 10 times for the Black Cats despite their Championship struggles