Martin O'Neill has said that he is certain Stephane Sessegnon will remain on Weirside despite reports that the playmaker is feeling homesick.

The 27-year-old is believed to be missing his family who are still in France after his summer move from Paris Saint-Germain.

This unsettledness has alerted some of Ligue 1's clubs but Sunderland manager O'Neill insists that the Beninese international is going nowhere.

"[The homesickness] doesn't seem to have affected him on the field because his form has been excellent. I hope he gets the chance to genuinely settle here, but it is not easy," said O'Neill.

"I understand, but it hasn't disturbed him and he hasn't come to me and said it has been a major problem.

"He's got great ability and I would love him to settle here and make this his home."

Sunderland begin their New Year by welcoming league leaders Manchester City to the Stadium of Light this afternoon.