Roker Report journalist Philip West is buzzing with the news that Sunderland are keen on signing free agent John Ruddy.
The Lowdown: Ruddy links
According to the Sunday Mirror (05/06, p69), via Football League World, the Black Cats are interested in signing the goalkeeper this summer after he left Wolves upon the expiry of his contract at Molineux.
A move to the Stadium of Light would reunite the 35-year-old with Alex Neil, with the pair having spent time together at Norwich City when the latter was in charge at Carrow Road.
The Latest: Journalist reacts
West, who writes for Roker Report, shared his delight with the reports linking Ruddy with a move to Wearside.
Taking to Twitter, the journalist and Sunderland fan claimed: “John Ruddy would be an absolutely cracking signing for us.
“Loads of experience, very solid & reliable, and could push Anthony Patterson and step in as deputy when needed. Would be a great addition if it happens! #SAFC”
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The Verdict: Get it done
With Sunderland preparing to build a squad capable of competing in the Championship, a player with Ruddy’s vast experience at that level will be a great asset to Neil’s side.
The 35-year-old has made 163 appearances in the second tier of English football and a further 122 in the Premier League (via Transfermarkt), so 22-year-old Patterson could learn a lot from Ruddy’s wealth of experience. Indeed, the veteran’s former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo once claimed that the goalkeeper’s ‘high standards’ in training were ‘amazing’.
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With Ron Thorben Hoffmann and Lee Burge moving on, a reliable shot-stopper is just what Sunderland need in order to provide them with invaluable depth between the posts for next season.
In other news: Roker Report delighted with this Sunderland transfer link
