Summer '24 transfer window

I understand that, not a fan of the way they go about it but surely it could possibly put them on an argumentative footing with the club when it comes to contract talks. It's just an idea that's come into my head that's all

 

Not wanting to split hairs like but wasn't it Football Manager that KLD was supposed to be a huge fan of? That would provide him with more practical skills and knowledge that FIFA, I would have thought. And getting really good at it requires a greater investment of time sat in your pants too.

 

Agree with this. Current first team squad is 27 and that's before we start including some of the promising youth players. We have a real need for 2 first teamers in my view (in the obvious positions). Beyond that we'd need to be shifting players out to make room. I'll be honest, if we get those two positions recruited well I wouldn't be disappointed if we didn't even replace Clarke (if he does go as expected). We really need to find out what we've got in the building already. One criticism of last season which is very fair for me is that we had too many prospects to work out what they were capable of. The rehabilitation of Clarke came about largely because he got to play himself through the adjustment phase. That opportunity hasn't been given to the likes of Ba, Aouchiche, Jewi or Mundle yet.

It's why I'm not too bothered about seeing loads of prospects coming in this summer. Not because I'm all that bothered about experience. We didn't lack experience last season in and of itself - we lacked success. Nobody would have given a **** if we'd have plucked a player out a PL U18 squad and he'd been an absolute home run. However, there is definitely something in the idea that throwing a load of stuff at the wall and hoping something sticks isn't the best way to develop players. I kinda get why it was done, but it's not what I want to see this summer.

 

You seem to be getting some good info mate any news on when or if RLB is bringing in any assistant coaches

 

People can't resist the dopamine though, hence the radio silence.

 

I believe that Goetze is coming in as assistant.

Few others coming in similar roles, pretty much advisors among other things.

 

No idea mate.

 

I was told he's out of contract now/soon pal

 

Postec and Jean-Marie David coming in?

 

I've got a memory of him only signing a shorter deal the other year, mind. Thought it was odd at the time as he seemed well thought of. May have been at his request.

 

I believe so mate

 

If that's true and it's not a tactic to get a longer deal or something, it would be a little odd and I'm not sure how that would work.

If he wants to leave to play first team football (30+ games a season) that means he is looking at Vanarama National or Vanarama North because at his age that is his level, if there is a League Two side willing to bring him in, he is not going to play that much football this season. All of that is without mentioning that we would be owed compensation for his development, and those sorts of clubs would not be interested nor able to pay.

 

He's there lad

https://x.com/SunderlandAFC/status/1808161207553253526?t=_p54Z3E5ON_CNXrkm8CQkw&s=19

 

What a lovely finish to the day! Neil tomorrow Ballard Thursday? Might aswell stagger the good news

 

Is it too much to ask for Norwood too

 

Rigg done ✅
Neil should be announced asap (all agreed)
Ballard - (close but still a bit to sort)

As I said yesterday morning

 

Right, malt out. Rigg is so special. Just amazing news. Best young one I have seen come from our youth.

 

Clarke Friday would be canny