Sunderland fans had plenty to say about one individual following the game against Watford, which was eventful as ever.
Sunderland went into their game against Watford on the Stadium of Light on a buzz, having beaten Middlesbrough 3-2 away from home in their previous outing.
But Regis Le Bris’ side were dealt something of a reality check on Saturday afternoon. The Black Cats eventually drew 2-2 against Watford, with the Hornets coming from behind after Luke O’Nien’s first half opener.
With few other teams on action on Saturday, Sunderland remain in 4th place of the Championship table but miss a crucial chance to really close the gap to those above them.
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Sunderland fans fume at Dennis Cirkin after Watford
Cirkin was the one who gave away the penalty for Watford to get back into the game, with one fan saying: “Absolutely no need to make that challenge.”
But his overall performance was poor, likewise his form in recent weeks. “Sorry, but we need to talk about Dennis Cirkin,” posted one fan.
Others wrote “Cirkin has been dire for weeks” and that “he’s been off his game for weeks now”. It comes after Cirkin had surgery on a broken wrist earlier int the season.
“Can we get pre injury Cirkin back please?” asked one fan. Another even described Cirkin as a “liability” following the game against Watford.
Although the 22-year-old proved to be the saviour on the day, salvaging a late point for the Black Cats, it was another poor overall performance from the left-back.
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Sunderland may think twice about new contract for Dennis Cirkin
In the first half of the season, there was a argument that Cirkin was Sunderland’s best player. Retuning to action after his injury-laden 2023/24, Sunderland looked a whole lot better and more balanced as a side with Cirkin back in the XI.
But there’s no doubt that he’s been off form since his injury. And it could bring into question whether or not Sunderland offer him a new deal or try and cash in during the summer.
Cirkin is out of contract in 2026 and Kristjaan Speakman recently confirmed that Sunderland have held contract talks with Cirkin, along with Dan Neil who’s also out of contract in 2026.