| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us 08:45 - Jan 31 with 888 views | CopfordBlue |
He’ll be more important than any centre forward we do or don’t sign in this window .
Everyone player played an important part in the back to back promotion seasons but for me KM’s system of play stands or falls on the two central midfielders. We’ve not had a pair good enough, often enough to get full value out of the way we play since Massimo left. Jens has quality but hasn’t shown it consistently, Jack Taylor has had some good games and isn’t lacking in ability but neither have done it consistently to the level needed, particularly away from home.
For 18’months, from January 2023 , the combined out of 10 ratings for Morsy and Luongo would rarely have been below 15. We’ve not had that since. Time will tell and it’s not fair to put too much pressure on a new signing, especially a loan player who is probably a bit rusty, but if Neil hits the ground running we’ll have a Feb-May run similar to those that took us over the line in 22/23 and 23/24. |  |
| |  |
| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us on 09:08 - Jan 31 with 788 views | RIPbobby |
I completely agree with the signings we’ve made; the two new lads are strong additions to the squad. One of my main concerns from last season was that our central midfielders didn’t quite measure up. Sam, unfortunately, was getting on a bit and isn't quite the physical presence we need at this level. While Jen is fantastic on the ball, he struggles when it comes to defensive duties. Kalvin Phillips, on the other hand, didn’t exhibit the movement or combative edge he used to have.
Azor has been impressive since joining us, and I believe he will hold his own in the Premier League.
When we faced teams like Newcastle at Portman Road, players like Bruno and Joelinton were absolute giants on the pitch, making us look like boys against men.
Sunderland have done well with their recent recruitment, adding a number of African players, which seems to have bolstered their physicality as a team. Aside from our two central midfielders, I think we performed decently in many matches last season. Kieran will surely take these lessons on board, and if we earn promotion, I’m confident we won’t make the same mistakes again. |  | | |
| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us on 09:18 - Jan 31 with 722 views | SuperKieranMcKenna |
Taylor has done a decent enough job and in fairness has upped his game this season, but I’m not convinced he’d be first choice in Boro or Cov teams, Neil is a very good upgrade, you’d think he’ll be fired up as wel with 6 months left on his deal in order to get a good summer move. | | | |
| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us on 09:34 - Jan 31 with 644 views | Tractor_Boy333 |
Mass was a great signing and had a big impact. A large part of our promotion was the midfield but was a weakness in the Premiership so really hoping Neil can have a similar impact.
Much of our struggles were no one filling in for Leif when he attacked which Mass was good at. I think Cajuste is good with the ball but not so good in defence and although Taylor has had his best season since joining Town we still get overrun in games.
Worried his lack of game time means he might take a few games to get up to speed fingers crossed it’s not too long before we see the best of him. Then would be great to have the option to bring on Jens as players start to tire. | | | |
| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us on 09:34 - Jan 31 with 645 views | nshearman1 |
| If Dan Neil can do what Massimo’s signing did for us on 09:08 - Jan 31 by RIPbobby |
I completely agree with the signings we’ve made; the two new lads are strong additions to the squad. One of my main concerns from last season was that our central midfielders didn’t quite measure up. Sam, unfortunately, was getting on a bit and isn't quite the physical presence we need at this level. While Jen is fantastic on the ball, he struggles when it comes to defensive duties. Kalvin Phillips, on the other hand, didn’t exhibit the movement or combative edge he used to have.
Azor has been impressive since joining us, and I believe he will hold his own in the Premier League.
When we faced teams like Newcastle at Portman Road, players like Bruno and Joelinton were absolute giants on the pitch, making us look like boys against men.
Sunderland have done well with their recent recruitment, adding a number of African players, which seems to have bolstered their physicality as a team. Aside from our two central midfielders, I think we performed decently in many matches last season. Kieran will surely take these lessons on board, and if we earn promotion, I’m confident we won’t make the same mistakes again. |
Totally agree both signings are great, as was Massimo, however I think we still need a consistent striker - just as we signed Kieffer Moore in our last Championship January window - to propel us into an automatic spot. Hirst has gone well off the boil and is getting injured, Azon is much admired because he buzzes around busily and links up well but his scoring record is not great and wasn't before he came to us. We still need a striker who can strike consistently, and the next few days could be critical to our season. | | | |
| |
By continuing to use the site, you agree to our use of cookies and to abide by our Terms and Conditions.
