Sunderland may be on a poor run of form right now, but they are still an attractive proposition that those within the club are desperate to be involved with.
It is now six games without a win for Sunderland after the defeat against Sheffield United on Friday night, and Regis Le Bris has seen his side lose pace in the title race of late.
The next couple of games could be crucial for Sunderland’s season as they look to get back on track and retain their place in the top six.
But, in the meantime, the club has been boosted by the apparent commitment of Under-21 boss, Graeme Murty, who has revealed he is not interested in taking on a managerial job elsewhere.
- READ MORE: Chris Rigg and Premier League star react to ‘terrific’ Sunderland man after Sheffield United loss
Graeme Murty not concerned with Hartlepool United links
Murty has been part of the Sunderland coaching staff since 2022, but is thought to be a wanted man right now, with Hartlepool United courting the former Scotland star to be their new manager.
Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, though, Murty played down those links and pledged his future to Sunderland.
“It’s not something I concern myself with. I just really want to do a very good job,” Murty said. “When I first applied for the [Sunderland] job, I saw the potential of the club and I think that everyone who comes into the building can see we’ve got a brilliant footprint at the training ground.”
On why he wants to stick around, Murty added: “We’ve got some unbelievable resources. We’ve got a fanatical fan base, and there’s room for really, really huge growth, and I think that’s the exciting thing.
“So regardless of personal interest or personal success and recognition, I think that we’re all really, really excited by the potential that we see within the environment, within the club, and what the future might hold.”
- READ MORE: Regis Le Bris’ irate 13-word verdict on Chris Mepham’s red card in Sheffield United vs Sunderland
Sunderland project is one of the most exciting in Championship
There is no doubt that what Sunderland are building right now is incredibly exciting. Even without the strong start this season, there are brilliant foundations at the club to find success in the short and long-term.
Sunderland have the youngest squad in the Championship this season, and yet the players are excelling at this level so early in their career. It’s exciting to think about what they can achieve when they have more experience under their belts.
Graeme Murty’s work with the youth team is a key part of that success, too, with the coach helping to push the next generation of stars at the club.
| Team | Average age of squad |
|---|---|
| Sunderland | 23.3 |
| Stoke City | 23.9 |
| Sheffield United | 24.0 |
| Hull City | 24.5 |
| Norwich City | 24.5 |
| Burnley | 24.5 |
Le Bris has spoken about prioritising the development of youth players ahead of signing new stars in January, and with the likes of Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham, it’s easy to understand why that would be the focus.
It may be too soon to expect a genuine shot at promotion this season, but one would imagine Sunderland will be around the play-offs at least. And then, next year, they can build on that and take a real look at the Premier League.