The Sunderland careers of Anthony Patterson and Dan Neil appear to be coming to an end. The Academy products and Sunderland fans were left on the bench for the FA Cup third round tie at Everton and seem to be out of favour entirely with head coach Regis Le Bris. The cup has now become a time when squad players can be given a chance to impress; however, Le Bris opted to play a stronger side and was proved right as first-choice keeper Robin Roefs saved three penalties as the Black Cats advanced to the next round.
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The End Is Nigh: Two Sunderland Players Could Have Played Their Last Game for The Club
Anthony Patterson and Dan Neil Could Leave a Lot Sooner Than Later
Dan Neil
Dan Neil’s contract ends in the summer, when he will be able to leave the club on a free transfer. With his minutes limited this season and no sign of a new contract being offered, Sunderland’s former captain could be sold this month if a buyer can be found. The midfielder has been at the club since he was a youngster and supported the team from the stands before his dream of playing for the club came true.
He played his part in helping the Black Cats rise from League One to the Championship; however, with others now ahead of him in the pecking order for a midfield place and little sign of this changing, especially with the players who were away at AFCON beginning to return, it could be best for all for him to move on.
According to the Sunderland Echo, Sky Sports, and several others, Rangers, Premier League, and Championship clubs are showing an interest.
Anthony Patterson
Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson, a regular from the last season in League One, to promotion to the Premier League, has found his playing time restricted to one Carabao Cup game, a game which was lost, thanks to the signing and superb form of summer recruit Robin Roefs.
Patterson, like Dan Neil, is an academy product and a fan of the club; however, unless he is happy to be second choice, a permanent move away would be best for his career. This one isn’t as straightforward as Neil leaving, with Regis Le Bris needing a replacement before allowing the shot-stopper to leave.
Rumours of Championship clubs showing an interest have remained just that so far. However, the keeper is likely to have several options should he and the club decide to part ways either this month or during the summer.
Forever Grateful, But No Room for Sentiment
Although fans will be sad to see two locals leave and ones who helped the club escape from the doldrums of League One and back to the Premier League, they have become victims of this success, with the club bringing in a higher caliber of player.
The club and their fans will always be grateful to them and others who were a part of their rise and will always be welcome back, but there is little room for sentiment for a club aiming to be the best that they possibly can.
Both can be proud of their achievements at the club, and that their boyhood dreams of playing for their club came true.
Featured image courtesy of IMAGO / News Images
