"I don't understand the "take him back to derail Sunderland" argument. If we do that, it's one less relegation place to worry about. However, by keeping him at Sunderland they are more likely to win the games in the mini league around them which could help us pull away from the whole group."
Unfortunately, Sunderland only get to play the teams down the bottom twice as well. Alone, they will not be the reason for us to "pull away from the whole group".
I'll explain my viewpoint in a bit more detail for you. The way that I personally see it is that there are 3 clearly poor teams right now in the Premier League. Fulham, West Ham and Sunderland. Fulham and West Ham are exceptionally bad and are taking drubbings. Crystal Palace have a new lease of life. West Brom and Cardiff just installed new managers and may enjoy a honeymoon period (yet to be seen). While there are 3 very poor teams, Sunderland are the one with potential right now. They are building and steadily improving into a better playing style which will benefit them later in the season. Take out their heartbeat and that could set them back a month or two. Fatal when you see their place in the table right now. 3 poor teams that aren't us means 3 relegated teams that aren't us. I don't for a second think that we will get relegated (presently), but while we have a chance to affect it, I think we should. That's my view on it anyway. Let him have his game at Old Trafford first though. My viewpoint hinges on that result anyway, so I'll zip-it until then!