Sunderland have a few youngsters knocking on the door of the first-team right now. But one of those out on loan is in a bit of a tricky situation.
Sunderland can pride themselves on their youth academy, with some really impressive players having graduated through the ranks in recent seasons.
The club has seen the likes of Anthony Patterson and Dan Neil come through the academy and both rack up well over 100+ appearances for the club each, whilst Chris Rigg is the latest to graduate, and impress for the first-team.
Rigg is now being eyed up by Manchester United ahead of the January transfer window with Real Madrid also being linked with the 17-year-old.
And Regis Le Bris may have his eye on some of the names currently playing in the youth ranks, including names like Harrison Jones, Trey Samuel-Ogunsuyi and more.
They could make their Championship debuts at some point this season. And so too could goalkeeper Matty Young, though right now he’s struggling for game time at loan club Salford City.
Matty Young yet to feature in the league for Salford City
Sunderland gem Young was on loan at Darlington last season. He caught the eye with some impressive saves, particularly from penalties, earning himself a loan move to League Two Salford City ahead of this season.
But Young is yet to play a single league game for the club. He’s featured four times in domestic cups this season and garnered some attention on social media with a double penalty save earlier in November.
Young has also featured for the England U20s this season, further highlighting how highly thought of he is.
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Sunderland should consider Matty Young change amid Anthony Patterson uncertainty
Right now, Patterson is the no.1 at Sunderland. But Patterson is also wanted by Manchester United, having had Premier League links for some time now, and this season could well be his last with the club.
Simon Moore is a solid no.2 and then there’s Blondy Nna Noukeu behind him, though he’s only under contract until 2026.
With Patterson’s longer-term future uncertain, Sunderland need to get Young up to speed in the next season or two to ensure they have another academy gem who’s ready to play in the league, and potentially become another valuable asset.
A January recall for Young, followed by another loan exit, could be ideal for him. But Sunderland must ensure he’d be the starting goalkeeper, as he was last season at Darlington, and so a National League loan move could be ideal.
Patterson was playing on loan in the National League just a few years ago and so Sunderland know that it’s a proven stepping stone. Young would surely entertain the chance to play regular football too.