Gus Poyet confirms both Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley have rejected new contract offers.
Poyet says he can't see Phil Bardsley or Jack Colback being at Sunderland next season. Contract talks have stopped.
In the past Phil Bardsley, 28, has been linked with West Ham and Fulham, Jack Colback, 24, has been linked with West Ham, Aston Villa, Fulham, Everton and Newcastle
Gus Poyet told the Sunderland Echo it would not be fair on Sunderland supporters to re-start those contract talks even if the Black Cats beat the drop either after the duo have both turned down the chance to remain at the Stadium of Light.
“Everybody knows we have been in contract talks with a couple of players, but at the moment everything is on standby,” said Poyet.
“Everyone is responsible for their own decisions and I don’t think we are in a position to push people to do things they do not want to do.
“I’m not stupid, I understand it brings uncertainty to the club for the future.
“To be honest, it doesn’t matter where we finish - I cannot see them staying at the club.
“It would be too easy to make a decision based on where we are (Premier League or Championship” because it would be very unfair on the fans.”
Bardsley is Sunderland most appearances player in the premier league.