Sunderland’s chances of promotion could take a big hit if they lose one of their star players this summer.
Despite a very poor second season in the Championship, Sunderland have already received a lot of interest in many of their players.
Jack Clarke has been the key man in a turbulent term – netting 15 goals in 38 games so far.
The winger still has two years left on his contract, but many fans are resigned to losing him at the end of the season.
Clarke hasattracted interest from the likes of Lazio, Burnley and West Ham, and the Black Cats’ failure to even reach the play-offs makes it extrmely unlikely that they will keep hold of him.
There is no denying that Clarke deserves his spot in the Premier League and no fan will judge him for leaving the Stadium of Light, but we all know how difficult it will be to replace him.
However, while finding another Clarke copycat could be a huge challenge, Sunderland could be in even bigger trouble if they lose Dan Neil this summer.
Dan Neil has been ‘unbelievable’ for Sunderland
The midfielder has really stood out this term and has actually been my player of the season, despite Clarke’s goal tally.
Neil has often been forced to play further back in the midfield and has not complained once, but has instead put on some ‘unbelievable’ performances and has looked very comfortable in the middle of the park.
The 22-year-old was the ‘best player on the park’ against Leeds United and certainly didn’t look out of his depth against a number of Premier League quality players.
Neil has the third-most shots in the squad (55), the third-most successful dribbles (42) and the third-most key passes (46), as well as the second-most tackles (74), the third-most interceptions (39), the third-most clearances (39) and the second-most blocked passes (44).
The academy graduate has brilliant ability all over the pitch and it is crazy how far he has come from when he first enjoyed his breakthrough in League One.
The lack of experience in this squad has meant that Neil has had to grow up very quickly and it has reflected into his ability as a footballer too.
Sunderland would be lost without their academy star
It is Clarke that often receives the plaudits for his goals, but Neil doesn’t get the credit he deserves and he would be a huge loss if the Black Cats were to sell him.
The team were given a taste of life without him at the weekend as they were beaten by Millwall, and his absence was glaringly obvious.
Sunderland definitely have an advantage given that he’s spent his whole life here and should do everything they can to keep hold of him, because getting promoted next season would be a lot harder without him.
