Despite the defeat to Stoke City at the weekend, Chris Mepham was in positive spirits about his experience at Sunderland and what he hopes to achieve with the club.
Sunderland have been flying this season under Regis Le Bris, but suffered a setback on Sunday with the last-gasp defeat to Stoke at the Bet365 Stadium.
The Black Cats remain in contention around the top of the Championship table, but Chris Mepham revealed his frustration at the defeat after the game.
Still, it wasn’t all negative for the defender, who took time to praise the support he’s had from the Sunderland fans since joining the club in the summer.
Chris Mepham feels the love at Sunderland, wants promotion this season
Speaking to the club’s official Twitter/X account, Chris Mepham was asked about how life at Sunderland has been treating him, and he had nothing but great things to say, while also stating his intentions to help the club get back to the top flight.
He said: “I’m loving it here. It’s been a breath of fresh air. I think I’ve made a good connection with the fans, I’ve felt their love and support.
“I want to be part of something really special this year. I feel like we’re more than capable. I want to play my part, and do everything in my power to help the club get back to where it belongs.”
Sunderland have been on track for promotion all season, but will need to bounce back from that Stoke defeat quickly with a crucial top-of-the-table clash with Sheffield United up next.
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Sunderland have to keep Chris Mepham long-term
Mepham has proven to be the very best Sunderland summer signing this season, and there is a real hope that the centre-half will stick around beyond the end of the campaign.
He’s currently on loan from Bournemouth, but Mepham’s contract there expires in the summer, and given the amazing connection he has developed at the Stadium of Light, it would not be surprising to see the Welshman sign permanently.
Mepham has been a key figure in the Sunderland backline this season, and along with Dan Ballard and Luke O’Nien in the middle there, Le Bris is blessed with defensive options.
Whether the Black Cats do get promoted or not, they will need Mepham again next year.