Chris Maguire arrived at Sunderland during the summer after a disappointing season at Bury. The midfielder/forward has been a success at the majority of his clubs; however, last season was a low point for the player. Many at Bury doubted his ability and attitude and were glad to see him leave as the team were relegated. His time at Sunderland has seen him perform so well that he is fast becoming a huge fan favourite and proving his doubters wrong in a big way.
Chris Maguire Playing Better Than Ever
Disappointing Time at Bury
After successful spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Oxford United, where he had his most prolific spell and is still adored, Maguire found himself at Bury. The 29-year-old started just 13 games for the Shakers, scoring twice. His time at Bury was described by one Bury fan as “catastrophically failed to live up to expectations”.
Reports suggested his body language was unprofessional and he simply didn’t enjoy being at Bury. His performances suffered as a result. Fans were not disappointed to see him leave their club after scoring just two goals as the team were relegated. They doubted his ability and his attitude to be able to perform. For Maguire, it was a chance to put a disappointing year behind him, get his career back on track and prove his doubters wrong.
Move to Wearside
When new owners Stewart Donald and Charlie Methven took over during the summer, one of the first texts Methven received was from Chris Maguire. The two had known each other during their time at Oxford together. Maguire asked Methven to get him to Sunderland.
Methven duly obliged and the player was soon on his way to speak to manager Jack Ross and to look around the club. He liked what he saw. “I love playing in front of big crowds, some might not relish that but for me, it seems to get the best out of me. You see the size of the stadium, the season tickets already sold, you just can’t wait to get started.”
Fan Favourite
Maguire adapted to his new surroundings without any trouble. His attitude, desire to do well for the club and its supporters, plus, his excellent performances so far, have already made him a firm fan favourite.
After several goals, one of which won the September Goal of the Month Award, assists and man of the match performances, some fans have hailed him as Sunderland’s new ‘king’.
“I’m loving it at Sunderland, I think everyone can see that on the pitch, I’ve got my love for the game back. It’s up to me to keep putting the performances in and keep chipping in with the goals as well.” It is fair to say that he is playing the best football of his career, and both player and fans are loving it.
Main Photo
