Sunderland supporters have shown their concern over potentially losing one man in the summer.
The Black Cats’ recent 2-0 comfortable win against out-of-form Championship side Luton Town at the Stadium of Light showcased plenty of talent scattered across Regis Le Bris’ side.
Sunderland didn’t look uncomfortable once, both in and out of possession against the Hatters, and much of this came down to the quality in the centre of the park for Le Bris’ team, which consisted of Dan Neil, Chris Rigg, and Jobe Bellingham being utilised slightly further forward.
Both Rigg and Bellingham have been linked away from the Stadium of Light in recent transfer windows because of their endless potential, whilst also proving to be head-and-shoulders above most when on top form. However, Neil has also shone recently, leaving Sunderland fans dubious about losing their team captain in the summer.
Sunderland fans worried over potentially losing Dan Neil in summer transfer
Following the Luton Town victory, which saw Sunderland team captain Neil shine in midfield for Le Bris’ side, Black Cats supporters took to X to praise the academy product.
One fan suggested that ‘he is so so good, he is our best player outside of Le Fee by some margin and I hope nobody ever notices’, and he was backed up by another supporter, who suggested that ‘if we’re in a losing position, it’s Neil who’s dragging us out of them. Absolute rolls royce of a player’.
However, despite Neil’s phenomenal showing, a contingent of rather pessimistic Sunderland fans explained their feelings towards how pivotal he is and the impact it would have if he were to leave.
On X, one fan said: “If we don’t go up, Neil is the player we should be worried about losing the most imo.
“Arguably the most important player in this team.”
One supporter replied to his claim and went one step further by suggesting that ‘I’m worried that we lose our whole midfield tbh. Rigg, Neil, and Jobe, all gone.’
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Black Cats midfield form could prove to be double-edged sword for Kristjaan Speakman
At this stage in the season, Sunderland is certainly well within the promotion picture, but that could prove to be a double-edged sword for the Black Cats.
If the Black Cats were to achieve promotion after performing so well this season, they would have no problems in keeping their top prospects, but if they are unable to get themselves to the Premier League, the future of Rigg, Bellingham, and even Neil will be in doubt.
All three of the Sunderland midfielders won’t see their immediate future at any other clubs, but if Premier League sides start touting their services in the summer, it is certainly ignorant to assume that their heads may not be turned by such interest and the opportunity to significantly progress their career.