Alex Pritchard appears to have given a subtle hint to his future at Sunderland.
Speaking to the club, Pritchard discussed the success of the Black Cats’ pre-season tour of the USA and how ‘fantastic’ the support out there has been.
The 30-year-old was handed a start in Sunderland’s 3-2 win over New Mexico United on Thursday and spoke very highly of his current experience with the club, despite talk of a summer exit.
Pritchard has enjoyed a successful two year spell on Wearside and played a huge part in winning promotion to the Championship, however his future looks to be in doubt this summer.
According to Sunderland Nation, Pritchard is one of three players that have been told their contracts wont be renewed in a year’s time.
With the midfielder likely to find himself further down the pecking order next season, he could look elsewhere ahead of his contract expiry next year.
However, Pritchard’s recent interview suggests he intends to enjoy Sunderland’s ‘unbelievable’ support beyond the summer.
“Yeah look, the fans are fantastic. We really appreciate the fans, everyone, staff, players, myself,” Pritchard said.
“The fans have been excellent to us. Especially in my time here it’s been unbelievable with these fans and may that continue.”
Should Sunderland sell Alex Pritchard?
Alex Pritchard has been one of Sunderland’s most important players over the last couple of years and has certainly redeemed himself after a disappointing move to Huddersfield Town.
The midfielder has definitely taken to the city and the club, while the fans have loved him during his time on Wearside.
While he will see his game time decrease next season, the Black Cats would still benefit from a player like Pritchard on their books. The team is made up of a lot of youngsters with little experience, something that the 30-year-old could definitely offer.
Sunderland are unlikely to make much from Pritchard’s exit so there would be no harm in keeping him until the end of his contract, however it will come down to whether the former Norwich City man wants to play regular football elsewhere.