Transfer news: Sunderland recall Connor Wickham to help battle against relegation

The Black Cats remain in the relegation places despite an upturn in form

Gus Poyet gestures during last weekend's 2-2 draw with Southampton (Getty Images)

Sunderland have recalled striker Connor Wickham from his loan spell at Sky Bet Championship club Sheffield Wednesday.

The 20-year-old, who has scored eight goals in 11 league appearances for the Yorkshire club, has returned to Wearside and could be involved in Wednesday night's Barclays Premier League clash with Stoke at the Stadium of Light.

A statement released on the Championship club's offical website, http://www.swfc.co.uk, said: "Connor Wickham has been recalled by parent club Sunderland, who have exercised the regular 24-hour clause in loan deals.

"Sheffield Wednesday would like to thank Connor for his services and wish him well for the future."

England Under-21 international Wickham has struggled to make an impact in the north east since his £8.1million switch from Ipswich during the summer of 2011.

However, he has impressed during his loan spell and has been linked with Nottingham Forest in recent weeks.

Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has been monitoring Wickham's progress at Hillsborough, but he has his own problems with summer signing Jozy Altidore in poor form and Steven Fletcher having scored only once in his last 16 appearances for the club.

PA