Ex-Sunderland striker Aiden O’Brien has lifted the lid on his move from Sunderland to Portsmouth in January and Lee Johnson’s decision not to play him.He said: ‘I felt like there were times at Sunderland when I did well, and I thought I would’ve been credited with a few runs and starts in games. ‘It didn’t happen and it kept going back and forth. "I wasn’t starting, so why? He (Johnson) couldn’t give me a reason. It came to a stage when I was quite fed up. “It took a lot out of me mentally, it was draining.‘So I just needed a fresh start and what better start than what I’ve had here so far.“I can’t wait to keep it going.”He added: “Sunderland have got a new manager now. He would’ve probably played me!‘That’s the thing, but I think they will be alright. They should be alright.“They are a big enough club to get over it. But I’m here now and as soon as I’m playing my mind is free.“My mind is most free when I’m playing on that pitch. I just literally black out everything else and focus on doing a job for my team and scoring goals.“That’s what I’ve done since I’ve started and managers I’ve played under all say the same thing. I’m a hard-working team player who mixes in with goals. That’s what I want to do here.”
He probably never got a fair crack of the whip as a No.9. Not that I'm convinced he IS an No.9 like but he was always on the periphery
He was a hard worker but I honestly think the minutes he did get were because he was the only option, I'm not sure what position he players, he's not a striker just a league one grafter
His best spell was when he and wyke played together. He’d do the leg work, Charlie would knock them in
Correct, they were very good for each other. And I do think we miss his ****housery. Whatever his limitations he wasn't frightened to be narky. As for not getting a straight answer out of Johnson. Who knew?!
Dear Aiden,one of the reasons you didn't get a regular start was because,when you did play, you missed a ****load of chances,some of which were sitters.
