Sunderland manager Chris Coleman has recently stated that some of the old guard are not safe from the axe. Be that from the team or the club. Players such as John O’Shea, Lamine Koné, Lee Cattermole, Darren Gibson, Jack Rodwell amongst others have been apart of the bad times at the Stadium of Light. Others that have not been at the club long but have failed to convince have also been put on notice. Several Sunderland youngsters should get ready.
With little sign of improvement after last seasons relegation from the Premier League, the club currently occupy a relegation place in the Championship. Now could be time for players who played a part in putting the club where it currently is to step aside and allow some of the talented Sunderland youngsters to show what they are capable of. One thing is for certain, they can’t do much worse.
Here is a look at some of the talented youngsters that Coleman has at his disposal now and in the near future.
Sunderland Youngsters Could be Vital to Chris Coleman
Joel Asoro
Sweden U21 international Asoro has certainly had a year to remember. The 18-year-old forward played a key role as the Black Cats reached the final of the Premier League International Cup. He made his debut for the Sunderland first team becoming their and also Swedens youngest Premier League player. He was called up to Swedens U21 squad, scoring in his second game. Was nominated for the European Golden Boy award and this season has impressed further. He has performed well for Sunderland’s first team when coming on as a substitute. He is in line to start his first game and his speed and eye for goal could cause opponents no end of problems.
Josh Maja
The young forward has had many take notice of him since his arrival on Wearside. Having impressed with the club’s academy sides, Maja featured on the first team bench last season. However, he had to wait to show what he could do for the first team. Four goals in six games during pre-season impressed many. Unfortunately, he was injured during a friendly game and has missed much of the season. However, he is close to full fitness and his return will be a boost to Chris Coleman as he looks to bolster his attacking options.
Tom Beadling
With the Black Cats conceding goals at an alarming rate, defenders from the Academy could see themselves handed first-team starts soon. Tall and athletic, Beadling has been a regular for a Sunderland’s U23 team. He is an old-fashioned, old-school central defender who could do very well against current Championship attackers. He has recently gained experience in League One and maybe now is the time for him to show that he can perform at higher level. As things stand, playing Beading would be of little risk due to the lack of form of the more experienced defenders.
Lynden Gooch & George Honeyman
Although still young, both players have the first-team experience in both the Premier League and the Championship. If Coleman wields the axe on some players, both Gooch and Honeyman could be two of the more experienced players on the pitch. Both are hardworking, forward thinking players with an eye or goal. Qualities desperately needed at present.
Rees Greenwood
The tricky winger made his first-team debut under Sam Allardyce. Unfortunately for him, he has yet to add to that appearance. He has, however, continued to perform at the U23 level and has also been capped by England U20’s. With injuries and loss of form to various players, manager Chris Coleman will be looking at the youngsters. Particularly those that can create and have an eye for goal that Greenwood undoubtedly has.
Ethan Robson
Midfielder Robson has been at the club since he was eight years old. He has progressed through the ranks and began training with the first team during Sam Allardyce’s time in charge. No stranger to the player of the month awards and has recently been nominated for the Premier League Two Player of the Month award. He is highly thought of both within the club and with fans. If he continues to develop and impress regular first team appearances will be coming his way very soon.
Ben Kimpioka
The 18-year-old has taken little time in impressing Chris Coleman. Scorer of a hat-trick in a recent game against rivals Newcastle United. He has been given the chance to train with the first team. If he continues to impress, the young Swede could figure in Coleman’s matchday squads sooner rather than later.
Max Stryjek
Currently on loan at Accrington Stanley. The goalkeeper has impressed in the U23’s, especially last season when they reached the final of the U23 Premier League International Cup. Both Jason Steele and Robin Ruiter failing to convince many that they are the man for the number one position. Stryjek, even though inexperienced, could be an option for Chris Coleman. Especially if he loses complete faith in his other keepers and has the option to recall him from a loan. However, he has been injured for much of this season and may be better off staying on loan and returning to the Stadium of Light in the summer to battle for the number one position. He has been capped by Poland at U17, 18 and 19 level.
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