Sunderland fans are waiting eagerly to see new signing Aaron Connolly given a run-out in the Championship.
Sunderland new boy Aaron Connolly has got a lot of fans talking since his arrival on a free transfer in September.
The former Hull City and Brighton man arrives with some baggage. But on the whole, Black Cats fans are excited and hopeful for his time at the Stadium of Light, after signing a one-year deal.
Regis Le Bris has already stated that Connolly is likely to debut after the international break this month, needing to get up to match fitness after being without a club since his Hull release last season.
On Monday, Connolly scored twice for the U21s in a 6-0 win against Derby County, potentially showing Le Bris that he’s ready for Championship football.
Connolly could make his debut against former club Hull City when league football returns later this month.
Alan Browne reveals transfer conversations before Sunderland signed Aaron Connolly
Speaking to Sunderland Echo, Connolly’s fellow Irishman Alan Browne has revealed the role he played in Connolly’s arrival.
Both Browne and Connolly represent Republic of Ireland on the international stage, with Browne having 36 caps and Connolly having nine.
“They [the Sunderland hierarchy] spoke to me briefly about him,” Browne said. “I don’t think I was the deciding factor but I spoke well of him.
“Knowing him from the past and having played with him, there’s a top, top player in there, so it’s about getting the best out of him.
“He’s settling in quite well with the group already, so hopefully, once he gets up to match fitness, he’ll be another option for us and a great option at that.”
Alan Browne experience benefits Sunderland in more than one way
Last season, Sunderland desperately lacked Championship experience. But Kristjaan Speakman added some during the summer.
Browne, Simon Moore, and then Connolly all arriving brings definite and proven Championship experience to the first-team.
And Sunderland look a lot better for it. Not only does it help on the pitch but as we’ve seen with Browne’s role in Connolly arriving, it helps off the pitch too.
Having someone with Browne’s knowledge and expertise gives Speakman something of a sounding board for certain signings.
So having experienced pros in the side can benefit the club as a whole, in so many ways, and Sunderland need to make sure they always have a degree of experience in their ranks.