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Nicklas Bendtner was axed by Martin O'Neill after being late for the team bus - and now faces a search for a new club.

The Danish striker will return to Arsenal this summer and hope for a fresh chance after his loan spell at Sunderland ended in double embarrassment.

Bendtner said his goodbyes on Wearside after Sunderland's defeat by Manchester United - and was later spoken to by police on the way home from the Stadium of Light for "erratic" driving.

The 24-year-old's exit leaves Sunderland desperate to find a goal scoring striker - or two - in the transfer market, with no prolific front men in their squad.

Bendtner scored eight goals during his year on loan and has also been impressive for Denmark.

He had been linked with a switch to Germany before moving to the North East in August.

(Image: Getty)

O'Neill is also ready to wield the axe elsewhere in his squad - with keeper Craig Gordon's contract running out and the club unwilling to offer him anything near the same wages, because Simon Mignolet is now No1.

O'Neill said: "I know we have a lot to do and next season starts here for me. You can see clearly we have work to do and there are a variety of issues to address. We'll take time to reflect on that and then move on as quickly as possible."

Meanwhile defender John O'Shea, who limped off against Manchester United, has been cleared to play for Ireland at the Euros after an injury scare.

A Sunderland spokeswoman said: "John suffered a knock to his ankle in training prior to the Fulham game, which he aggravated slightly in Sunday's game against Manchester United.

"He was taken off as a precaution and following positive results from a scan last night, he will meet up with the Republic of Ireland squad as scheduled next week."