Tom Eaves has perfect chance to show Sunderland why they made a mistake in January

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After Josh Maja joined Bordeaux in January, Sunderland spent the final part of the transfer window trying to sign a new striker.

Jerome Sinclair had also left after his loan spell was cut short, leaving Sunderland with limited options up front.

Among the players Jack Ross tried to sign was Gillingham striker Tom Eaves, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

But that move failed to materialise and Sunderland instead snapped up Kazaiah Sterling on loan from Tottenham Hotspur and Will Grigg in a permanent switch from Wigan Athletic.

Tonight, Sunderland prepare for the visit of Gillingham when they host their League One opponents at The Stadium of Light.

And Eaves will be determined to prove that Sunderland made a mistake by picking Grigg and Sterling ahead of him.

The 27-year-old has been in fine form this season, racking up a tally of 16 goals in 36 games.

But with his contract expiring in the summer, Eaves’ future at Priestfield is in doubt and he would have been available for a cut-price fee.

Eaves poses a unique threat, given his height, power and aerial ability. He would have given Ross a different option up front.

If he can impress in tonight’s League One clash, Sunderland might return for him when the transfer window opens again in the summer.