Chopra returns to Black Cats

New Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia will hand Michael Chopra another chance to prove himself at the top level after recalling the striker from his loan spell at Cardiff.

The promotion-chasing Bluebirds had hoped to keep Chopra at Ninian Park, however he is set to swap the Coca-Cola Championship for another stint in the Barclays Premier League.

Cardiff confirmed in a statement on Monday night: "The loan of Michael Chopra finishes on Wednesday December 31 and Sunderland wish him to return to the Stadium of Light."

It continued: "We would like to thank Michael for the last two months and wish him all the best on his return to Sunderland."

Chopra joined Cardiff from Newcastle in 2006, in a £500,000 deal, and moved on to Sunderland a year later for £5million.

He struggled for goals in the Premier League, but Sbragia may see a role for him in the coming months as the Black Cats look to make certain of their survival.

At the time of Chopra starting his loan with Cardiff in November, it was anticipated the club would look to make his signing permanent during the transfer window.

The 25-year-old's 11-game loan spell at Cardiff ended with the 1-0 win over Plymouth on Sunday that lifted Dave Jones' team into fourth spot in the Championship table.

He scored five goals but is set to return to Sunderland duty for Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Bolton.