Former Sunderland striker Josh Maja scores first goal of new season with Bordeaux

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In January of last season, Sunderland had to make a tough call on the future of star youngster Josh Maja. 

The Black Cats were left in a tough position as their top-scorer was approaching the end of his contract. With it looking unlikely that he was going to sign a new deal, Sunderland decided to sell him on. 

French side Bordeaux eventually snapped him up in a deal reported by The Chronicle to be worth around £3.5 million. After scoring 15 goals in 24 league games for Sunderland last season, he was a big loss.

But since his move, it has not been an easy transition for Maja. Firstly, his new manager admitted he had never heard of him and the striker has struggled for game time in Ligue 1. Last season he played just seven times after the move and scored once. 

However, the new campaign appears to have started a little brighter for Maja. He was brought off the bench against Montpellier yesterday to score his first goal of the new season as he looks to thrive in a full campaign in France. 

Sunderland fans will, of course, be happy this weekend, after picking up a win against likely promotion rivals Portsmouth.

But there is no doubt that they must wish Maja was still at their disposal. 

Time will tell if the 20-year-old can go on to have a stellar first full season in France.