Sunderland winger Aiden McGeady is currently enjoying one of, if not the best, spells of his career to date. The Republic of Ireland international has been an integral part of Sunderland’s success this season. Goals, assists, awards and plaudits aplenty have been a part of McGeady enjoying his football once again. When McGeady enjoys his football, he can be unstoppable.

Aiden McGeady is Playing His Best Football at Sunderland

Brief History

Beginning his career at Celtic, McGeady won everything possible in Scotland. With many clubs interested in his services, it was a surprise to many when he moved to Spartak Moscow. At £9.5 million he became Scotland’s most expensive export. He spent four years in Russia before moving to the Premier League with Everton.

This move, however, was not as successful as many believed it would. He struggled to settle and ended up having loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Preston North End. He joined Sunderland in 2017 and, after a frustrating first season, he is playing the best football of his career.

A ‘Luxury Player’?

Often described as a luxury player, McGeady was seen as a player with immense talent, but not one who would consistently produce or do the hard work for the team.

This season has seen his work rate increase, as well as his influence on and off the field. Several times this season, the Scotsman has been given the captain’s armband by manager Jack Ross. No longer is McGeady a luxury player, he is a luxury team player.

Goals and Assists

32-year-old McGeady is currently enjoying the best season of his career in front of goal. Never before has he reached double figures; however, he already has 11 and no doubt more will come his way. Multiple assists and chances created are impressive too. Although McGeady does like to strike at goal when the opportunity arises, selfishness does not play a part should a teammate be better placed.

Provides That Something Special

Sunderland manager Jack Ross:
“I have got a lot of players who have different attributes and all contribute to us winning, but Aiden has got that x-factor to help us win games.”

“There are few players who are blessed with that ability and obviously working with him day in day out, I’ve understood just how good he is. He is an immensely talented footballer but you have got to have the attitude, desire and application to back that up and he’s certainly done that this season.”

Player of the Month

McGeady collected the League One Player of the Month award for February last week. His four goals, assists and performances helped the Black Cats remain unbeaten throughout the month, collecting 12 points in the process.

Jack Ross, who won the Manager of the Month award for February, said: “Aiden has been outstanding consistently for a long period of time now and this is the reward of that.”

Ireland Recall

New Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy handed McGeady another reward recently: a recall to the national side. McGeady is currently on 92 caps for the Republic, his last appearance coming in 2017. McCarthy admitted soon after he got the job that he’d had the winger watched. Although he is only in the provisional squad at present, his form could make it very difficult for McCarthy to omit him.

Best Player in League One?

League One has some good players, some are very good; however, for sheer talent, not one comes close to Aiden McGeady. It is very rare that a player in League One or Two will be as comfortable on the ball as he is. A player who always wants to ball and can supply that bit of magic that can be the difference in a game is invaluable.

Is he head and shoulders above everyone else in League One? With his experience and skill, there a few who could argue.

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