All that matters to me is that a player plays like they want to be a Sunderland player. I’m not going to pretend that every player at our club is here because we are their first choice. We just happen to be the best available choice at the moment they make a move. Pierre Ekwah didn’t grow up wanting to join Sunderland. He’s excited to join us because it’s the right time and right moment and it fits. And it’s great to see. There’s no reason Joe Gelhardt won’t react exactly the same if / when he joins. He’s a player who plays with his heart of his sleeve. Basically my point is we aren’t always going to be first choice for players. But not being first choice doesn’t mean that player isn’t going to play his heart out and fall in love with the club.
That sounds like the deal collapsed because he suddenly found out that there was a (much) better option . . . . which he took 'cos S.A.F.C. (understandably) became his first choice
It's not a case of first or second choice, anyone can change their mind. I remember, I think it was Speakman saying something along the lines of... any player coming here need to be in tune with the club, excited to be here and prepared to give their very best. If that is because they come here and are convinced that this is the place for them or we were always their first choice, it doesn't matter so long as when they get here they do it because they want to really be part of it.
My thinking is that the player would prefer to go there as he is a Wigan fan, but Leeds will want him to go elsewhere given how **** Wigan are.
I can see his first interview going like this, although Wigan were your first choice, can you say your happy to be here. That would be a recurring theme, if he missed a sitter, we'll he didn't really want to be here. So on and so forth. I believe with some of the toxic fans on social media would exploit that statement as it's out there and it could lead to another Grigg situation. I just hope if he comes he keeps his head down and enjoys the ride like the rest of the players and club.
I was on my way back to Scotland, after the Wembley play off final, and there was a delay on the train. We had to get off at Wigan and wait for a connection two hours later. I thought I'd get a pint and a bite to eat so walked the length of the high street. Oh dear, it was shocking to the extent that I actually felt sorry for the various lost souls hanging around begging ciggies off each other and spitting on the ground. I ended up buying a few cans and a pastie so I didn't have to go into any of the pubs. Fair enough I probably missed out on some cheap meat or a genuine Rolex but I just couldn't face it. The replacement train wasn't exactly top class ... ... but if felt like I was boarding the Orient Express
As I understand the current state of play for strikers... the two rumours are Simms to return (unlikely as no/new manager, at Everton. The Leeds, Wigan supporter... Obviously I do not have a clue but neither sounds likely... Who else is being gossiped about?
