Sunderland finally got their first win of the Premier League season at the weekend with a well fought 2-1 victory over Bournemouth, much to the delight of their fans in the Transfer Tavern.
The Black Cats had gone behind thanks to an early Dan Gosling strike, though Victor Anichebe got the visitors back into the game ten minutes before half-time with his first strike for the club.
Star man Jermain Defoe then thumped home from the penalty spot to give Sunderland the lead, who clung on for victory despite having Steven Pienaar sent off earlier in the game.
The three points couldn’t lift David Moyes’ side from the bottom of the Premier League table – a position they have been in since late August – though gave fans hope for survival following yet another dismal start to another Premier League campaign.
It looks like it will have to be a ‘great escape’ yet again for Sunderland who more often than not cling on to their top-flight status by the skin of their teeth.
Whether or not David Moyes is the man to do that for them is a question for another day, though it is certain that changes are needed this January if they are indeed to stay up yet again.
Could it be TWO in and TWO out at the Stadium of Light? Our landlord thinks it could be….
OUT – Fabio Borini
For a man to have played at Chelsea, Roma and Liverpool, Fabio Borini distinctly lacks the calibre and quality that he should have either picked up or had in the first place for being at such clubs.
A successful loan spell on Wearside has been followed by a season and a bit of poor returns for the Italian, having scored only 5 times in his past 30-something appearances.
Time to let go.
IN – Shane Long
One man who will almost certainly by looking for pastures new in January is Irishman Shane Long, who is struggling for playing time at Southampton thanks to the form of Charlie Austin.
Long seems to thrive as the star man at a smaller club, and hence a move to the Stadium of Light could be perfect for both him and Sunderland to help support Jermain Defoe.
OUT – Jack Rodwell
Jack Rodwell may just be the most disappointing English midfielder of our generation.
Such promise at Everton was almost destroyed by Manchester City’s mega millions, though a shot at redemption came through Sunderland.
That shot was not taken, and it looks like Rodwell has no intention of taking it either.
The 25-year-old looks sluggish and uncreative in the middle of the park and is unable to provide the spark his side need.
IN – Robbie Brady
One of the biggest surprises of the summer window was that no-one snapped up this lad.
Brady was terrific for Hull, excellent for Norwich and phenomenal for Ireland during Euro 2016 and the prior qualifying campaign.
Although he plays at left-back now, Brady is versatile enough and has the quality to play almost anywhere across the defence and midfield, and securing his services would be a wonderful signing.
