One former Sunderland man has struggled this season despite a drop in divisions.
In recent history, the 2023/24 Championship season will be one to forget for Sunderland fans. Thankfully, since Regis Le Bris joined the club, all signs are pointing towards the club progressing both on-and-off the pitch, but the end of the last campaign certainly left many deflated.
The summer window saw several players signed with differing success rates, many of whom are no longer part of Sunderland’s plans.
One man who was signed before the 2023/24 Championship campaign was attacking-midfielder Bradley Dack after his stay at Blackburn Rovers drew to its conclusion.
Having notched just 16 games in red & white last season, including just six in the starting side, the 31-year-old was not handed an extended stay on Wearside, with the Black Cats sanctioning a move for Dack to return to his former side Gillingham in League Two.
It was set to be a return to a former club that was written in the stars for him to shine well above his level, but things haven’t worked out that way.
Former Sunderland man Bradley Dack struggling in League Two with Gillingham
Before spells at Sunderland and fellow Championship side Blackburn, Dack notably played 185 games for Gillingham between the 2012/13 to the 2016/17 campaign.
The start of this season saw the 31-year-old return to his former side, however it has not quite been a brilliant second coming.
Having played on just 15 occasions, mainly down to fitness issues in the wake of the 2024/25 League Two campaign, he is still yet to notch a goal or assist. The most recent Gillingham game, a surprise 1-0 victory for the 19th placed side, which was a first win in 13, saw Dack play the role of an unused substitute.
Bradley Dack Black Cats spell set a negative precedent for Gillingham return
Looking at Dack’s return to Gillingham, it is clear that his major issue in regards to not being quite on top form, as well as struggling when utilised ultimately comes down to issues regarding fitness and injuries.
This is very reminiscent of his short spell on Wearside, which saw him out on several occasions because of thigh issues, particularly in the period after Christmas.
The former Sunderland man had a difficult tenure at the Stadium of Light, and whilst his quality can not be doubted, having been a real powerhouse at his peak in the Championship, he has been hampered with injury issues the last couple years, which was certainly a reason as to why his season on Wearside was a disappointment.