Lamine Kone: West Ham and Southampton like the defender

The Black Cats’ boss has revealed he’s renewed his faith in the French centre-half after his performance in the opening 1-1 Championship draw at home to Derby.

Kone was booed off after an error-strewn display in the 5-0 friendly defeat against Celtic with many fans believing he was playing badly to get away.

But while Grayson accepts Kone can leave if a big enough bid is lodged, he is convinced the defender has not laid down tools.

“He has shown a good attitude,” said the Sunderland chief.

“We have a value on his head and if nobody reaches that value, he will stay.

“Lamine has been questioned but he was outstanding the other night.”