Zenden joins Sunderland on trial

Zenden joined on a free transfer (GETTY IMAGES)

Boudewijn Zenden has joined Sunderland on a week-long trial, according to PA Sport.

The former Barcelona, Liverpool and Marseille man has been offered the chance to impress on Wearside by Black Cats boss Steve Bruce.

Zenden, 33, is a free agent after leaving Marseille at the end of last season.

The player's father and agent, Pierre Zenden, told Voetbal International: "Sunderland want to examine over the next two weeks Boudewijn's physical state.

"Boudewijn has, over the past few months, kept himself fit and trained six days a week.

"Sunderland are looking at a short-term way of strengthening their midfield and Boudewijn is a serious candidate.

"Sunderland know what he can do and what he is capable of so he does not have to prove himself.

"But they want to see him in action and submit him to some medical tests."

Bruce told www.safc.com: "Bolo has joined us for a while and will train at the academy for a few weeks as he looks for a new club.

"He clearly has a first-class pedigree as a player so it's great to have him here."