The new Football League season is almost upon us. Fans will return to stadiums hoping to see their team have a successful season. At Sunderland, it is no different, with the Black Cats hoping that this season is the one that finally sees them gain promotion. Several players could play a key part in a successful season. Here is a look at just five Sunderland players to look out for this coming season.
Sunderland 2021/22: Five Players to Look Out for
Elliot Embleton
Technically gifted with an eye for a defence-splitting past, Elliott Embleton looks set to feature prominently for the Black Cats this season.
Comfortable in several midfield positions, the 22-year-old could be most effective playing behind the main striker. Embleton has struggled with injuries in the past but appears to have put those behind him. He was an important player from Blackpool last season where he spent half a season on loan, impressing as the Seasiders gained promotion.
Now back on Wearside, his pre-season performances suggest he is in form and could be a key player in any Sunderland attack this season.
Callum Doyle
At just 17-years-old on loan defender Callum Doyle appears to have a bright future ahead of him. Signed on a season-long loan from Manchester City, Doyle raised eyebrows when his signing was announced due to his age and inexperience. If his pre-season performances are anything to go by, Sunderland supporters have no reason to worry.
Comfortable on the ball and a good reader of the game for such a young man, the 6’3 defender can only improve with regular first-team football. Doyle is also an England Under-18 international and excelled for the City Under-23 side that won their league title.
Ross Stewart
Signed in January from Ross County, Ross Stewart found game time hard to come by at times due to the goalscoring form of the now-departed Charlie Wyke. With last season’s top scorer deciding to reject a new deal and move to Wigan Athletic, Ross Stewart will have his chance at leading the line for Sunderland, at least for the early part of the season.
Stewart has played regularly in pre-season and has impressed with the goals he has scored and his work rate both on and off the ball. Comfortable with the ball at feet and in the air, Stewart could cause a lot of problems for opposition defenders this season.
Luke O’Nien
Expected to be played in his more natural central midfield role, the fan favourite could be a big player for the Black Cats this season. O’Nien, described by previous manager Jack Ross as an “unbelievably good finisher” has had little chance to impress in his favoured midfield role.
Throughout his three years at the club, O’Nien has played the majority of games at either right-back or central defence. In each position, he has not let anyone down and performed above expectations. However, having just signed a new deal at the club despite interest from the Championship, O’Nien now appears to be given a chance in the middle of the pitch.
His high energy, work rate, ability and enthusiasm not only have made him a fan favourite but the ideal player to have in midfield.
Aiden McGeady
At 35, many would think Aiden McGeady’s influence would begin to wane. Far from it, the former Republic of Ireland international winger is still a game-changer. The newly appointed vice-captain can influence a game like no other in the football league.
Never a winger with blistering pace, his intelligence and skill can create something out of nothing. Last season, despite not starting a game until December, McGeady topped the assists table come the end of the season. A player who can also score from almost nothing or with a precise freekick, McGeady is definitely one to watch amongst Sunderland players.
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