Sunderland are still in deep relegation trouble and their fans here in the tavern are worried for what lies ahead for David Moyes’ men…
The 4-0 victory over Crystal Palace was a definite high point in their season but the fact remains that points still need to be collected if the threat of relegation is to be swerved once again.
It’s a tough division this year and manager David Moyes will have to use all his managerial know-how to keep his side in the league. As we’ve seen in the Championship this campaign, it’s just as tough to escape the second division when you are relegated so staying in the Premier League is an absolute must for the Black Cats.
And here in the pub, there’s plenty of Sunderland fans who think certain players in this squad have a lot of proving to do if they are to keep their places in the side come the end of the season.
So, with that in mind, here’s 3 Sunderland players who need to seriously prove their worth between now and the end of the season…
Jack Rodwell
Jack Rodwell was a major part of that 4-0 win over Palace a couple of weeks back but once again, he’s been ruled out for a lengthy period of time with a hamstring injury.
Just as it seemed he was getting over his injury hell, the injuries have returned and he’s back on the sidelines. He’s been poor for the majority of the season and his hamstring troubles certainly haven’t helped his cause with the Black Cats supporters, who seem to think he’s somewhat lightweight.
When he returns, he’s got lots of proving to do to show that he’s the man to lead from the midfield.
Jason Denayer
Jason Denayer is a player who seems to have three terrible weeks, followed by one excellent match that warrants his place in the starting line-up week after week.
Granted, Sunderland aren’t blessed with the biggest of squads in the slightest but the on-loan Manchester City man has lots of proving to do not only to Black Cats supporters but also to coaches at his parent club.
A breakthrough into the senior City side at this stage in his career looks unlikely but a strong second half of the campaign could change that in a heartbeat.
