The new Sunderland signing has given clarity over an ongoing transfer saga.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has been left in limbo during his pre-season campaign as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the futures of key players.
Jobe Bellingham and Jack Clarke have both received interest, but it has now been revealed that Bellingham is set to stay at the club for the 2024/25 Championship season.
With more clarity surrounding the future of the former Birmingham midfielder, they can now look to stamp their authority on the transfer market, with Championship experience the most important characteristic to add to the Black Cats’ young squad with an average age of 23.
Simon Moore has arrived at Sunderland with the required experience needed, and the shot-stopper has explained his role at the club which may provide more clarity to Sunderland’s ongoing task of keeping a key player.
- READ MORE: How latest Jobe Bellingham transfer news will now affect Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland squad plans
Simon Moore brought in to ‘support’ Sunderland star Anthony Patterson
Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League side Wolves, however former Coventry City goalkeeper Moore has explained that he was brought into the club to ‘pass on my experience to the young squad’, per The Northern Echo.
It was always expected that 34-year-old goalkeeper Moore, who has stated that he has ‘the hunger and desire to work hard’, was going to be a second goalkeeper.
However, the fact that Sunderland have a clear plan in the development of their 24-year-old goalkeeper could be enough for Patterson to stay a further year at the Stadium of Light.
- READ MORE: Regis Le Bris issues plea to Sunderland board over ‘super talent’ who’s ‘important’ to his plans
How Sunderland are preparing for the Championship season the correct way
At first glance, the signing of Moore was unexpected, with a back-up goalkeeper being far from main priority for Sunderland ahead of the new season.
However, the fact that they have prioritised the development of Patterson with this move shows that Sunderland are looking to withhold their most prized possessions, making them feel like the Stadium of Light is the best place to continue their development.
The same has happened with Bellingham, which will be just as crucial as Patterson staying, if they manage to persuade him amidst Premier League interest.
Although Sunderland’s young squad affected them negatively last season, with them often lacking leadership when under the reign of both Michael Beale and Mike Dodds, they have now worked out how to use their young squad to their advantage by bringing in experienced heads to support the younger players.
If Sunderland manage to follow suit by bringing in a Championship experienced winger, not only could this provide more cover to Clarke, but also increase the chances of him sticking around for a further season.