The future of Sunderland is very much uncertain this time, with matters on and off the field still to be settled.
It promises to be an intriguing few weeks, that is for certain, particularly if Phil Parkinson manages to steer the team into a position where promotion is a very attainable goal. Away from the pitch, there seems to be a constant stream of new developments regarding the ownership of the club and Stewart Donald’s plans for the future after he announced last month that the club was for sale.
Since then, several groups have been linked with a possible takeover though the American trio who loaned the club £9m via the FPP company are now out of the running after dissolving said company.
The club changing hands is still likely since Donald stated he was hoping to have a buyer in place by the end of February, and former striker Kevin Phillips believes there is no reason not to believe the owner.
Speaking to Football Insider, he said:
“Credit to the chairman as well, the supporters vented their frustrations and wanted him out and he went.
“He made it clear that he is talking to people. I expect something to happen.
“From what I know about the man, he is a man of his word and if he is talking to potential buyers then for the football club, moving forward, it can only benefit them.
“I am sure there are people out there that would love to have a chance of owning Sunderland FC.”
Naturally, as a former player and fan favourite (having been clapped and cheered during his recent appearance in the stands against Bolton), Phillips thinks highly of the club. He is right to do so as the north-east outfit is a very attractive proposition, particularly if Donald only demands £35m from a buyer, as recent reports from Off the Pitch suggest he might.
The Stadium of Light is a Premier League ground and the club’s academy is still Category One level, so all that is required seems to be a little more investment in the playing personnel.
Phillips is optimistic that new owners could take the club forward but it is important that any prospective buyers build a relationship with the fans as well as providing money, as the falling out with Donald shows how quickly things can turn sour, and if Sunderland miss out on promotion yet again the fans will not accept any further shortcomings.
Do you believe Phillips’ view of Donald and the possible takeover Sunderland fans? Give us your verdict on the matter by commenting below…
