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Steven Fletcher has no intention of abandoning Sunderland if the Black Cats lose their fight for Premier League survival.

Sunderland’s 11-goal top scorer has been ruled out of the run-in after suffering ankle ligament damage in Scotland’s World Cup qualifying defeat against Wales nine days ago, dealing his side a huge blow as they battle against the drop.

After suffering the heartbreak of relegation with his last two clubs Burnley and Wolves, Fletcher is desperate to avoid an unwanted hat-trick, and remains confident that Sunderland will not suffer the same fate.

But Black Cats fans will be delighted to hear that, whatever happens this season, the £12m summer buy from Wolves has told friends he is happy on Wearside and wants to stay.

A source close to the player said: “Steven was top scorer with both Burnley and Wolves in the seasons that they were relegated and he does not want to see it happen for a third time.

“And he is confident it will not happen with Sunderland.

“Some players might have had a release clause written into their contract if their club was relegated but nothing was further from Steven’s mind.

“He could not be happier at Sunderland with the poor recent results the only black spot.”

Fletcher had a scan on his injury this week and is currently wearing a protective boot. He will undergo another scan in a fortnight’s time to decide whether or not he needs surgery.