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Black Cats Set For Summer Spree Thursday 4th June 2009
Sunderland have recently confirmed Steve Bruce as their new manager and the former Wigan boss will have lots of money to spend in the transfer market this summer.
Fantasy Stakes players will know that the Black Cats narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League last season, but now the club is hoping to push on and build for the future.
United States businessman Ellis Short took over at the Stadium of Light in May and there is expected to be a number of big name signings over the summer.
Sunderland have wasted no time in clearing out the unwanted players – the likes of Djibril Cisse, Calum Davenport and Tal Ben Haim have already had their loan contracts terminated and seven players have also been released.
And the remaining Black Cats players may be slightly concerned that they are going to be replaced my bigger names as Sunderland look to progress.
Fantasy Stakes players should note that Steve Bruce’s squad isn’t packed to the rafters with stars. Striker Kenwyne Jones is perhaps the most sought after player in the ranks after he netted 10 league goals last term, and former Manchester United midfielder Kieran Richardson has been the subject of some speculation.
Other than that there are few players who stand out and Sunderland’s manager - and new owner - will want to change that as soon as possible.
Bruce, however, conceded that he is willing to give every player a chance to prove himself.
“I’m going to give them all a chance,” he said.
“Whatever happened in the past, I’m not interested in. I’m proud to sit here as Sunderland manager and I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“It’s the perfect time. I’ve worked over 10 years for a chance like this. It’s up to me to put a team on the pitch now. I can’t wait to start.”
Fantasy stakes players should brace themselves for plenty of comings and goings at the Stadium of Light as Bruce tries to unearth some hidden gems, just like he did at Wigan.
