Sunderland slumped to a 3-0 defeat at Coventry City on Saturday, in their final game before the March international break.
It’s now looking like a long two weeks for Sunderland fans who might be glad for the break from football, but who may also be fearing the worst in this season’s race for top six.
The Black Cats looked lost in their 3-0 defeat against Frank Lampard’s Coventry City on Saturday afternoon, going into the break 2-0 down and then conceding another after the break.
No player came out of that one with praise. But many think skipper Dan Neil was the worst of the lot.
Sunderland fans blast Dan Neil vs Coventry City
After an utterly terrible first half, Sunderland fans had plenty to say on social media, and plenty to say about Dan Neil.
“Dan Neil is still in the dressing room,” said one fan. “Shocking start.” “Dan Neil is having the worst 25 minutes of the season,” added another, as a similar comment read: “Dan Neil having his poorest game of the season.”
A lengthier post on social media said: “You’ll never ever convince me Dan Neil is captain material. No drive, not vocal, constantly gives the ball away, has one good game in about six.”
“Is Dan Neil colour blind,” asked another supporter as Neil kept on giving the ball away. “Does Dan Neil know he plays for Sunderland?”
Another angry Sunderland fan said: “Dan Neil always has one game a season where he looks like he’s never kicked a ball in his life.” “Dan Neil been rancid,” said another.
Jobe Bellingham rates Dan Neil very highly at Sunderland
On the whole, Neil has had a strong season. But he certainly left a lot to be desired against Coventry, perhaps reminding himself and everyone watching that he has a way to go before he’s realistically considered for a Premier League move.
But those behind the scenes at the Stadium of Light rate Neil very highly. Speaking recently, Jobe Bellingham hailed Neil and Chris Rigg, saying the pair are the ones who’ve impressed him the most since he arrived.
Bellingham said: ” “I knew about Riggy before [signing for Sunderland] to be fair, but he’s the player I’ve been most impressed with since I’ve come to the club. Probably him and the likes of Dan Neil.”
Sunderland remain in 4th place of the Championship table for the international, but take a very sour mood into the two week break. They return to action against Millwall.