The Stadium of Light is currently in full darkness (oh my stupid humour and irony) as relegation is looming large for Sunderland. The Black Cats have performed awfully and are currently in the last place in the Premier League table. David Moyes has tried everything possible to overturn his side’s form but nothing seemed to have worked for the Black Cats.
The arrival of Bryan Oviedo and Darron Gibson to Sunderland couldn’t halt their losing spree and they are almost certain to lose their ‘Premier League’ status this term unless something miraculous happens. If however they are demoted to the Championship, a host of Sunderland players are set to leave the club.
Three players who could leave Sunderland at the end of this season
Jermain Defoe
Age is just a number and Jermain Defoe proved it once again this season. The 34-year-old has broken all the barriers and has netted 14 times so far for the struggling club. His scoring prowess has impressed Gareth Southgate immensely and he called up the player to the England squad for the match against Germany and Lithuania. Sam Allardyce wanted a reunion with the player but Sunderland was reluctant of letting go of their most prized asset.
However, things could change if they get relegated this season as no player would want to go a level down in terms of quality. Crystal Palace could give it a try regarding bringing Defoe to Selhurst Park as Big Sam would be delighted to have the player.
Jordan Pickford
The 23-year-old has been in fine form and it’s his form that has saved the Black Cats from humiliation a number of times. Manchester City are among one of the potential suitors for the talented keeper. Pep Guardiola has had his problems with the goalkeepers as none of the keepers, Claudio Bravo and Willy Caballero, seemed to have satisfied him.
Pickford has emerged as one of the most sought after keeper in the Premier League. Sunderland needs to sell a few players to clear some wages off the book as they won’t be able to make new signings due to the stringent rule of Financial Fair Play and could consider moving the young shot-stopper along.
Lamina Kone
Another signing former manager Sam Allardyce, Sunderland managed to remain in the top flight with some spirited performances in the final lap last season and this defender played a vital role in that. He has failed to repeat his form this term and a drop to the Championship might persuade him to choose a different club in coming days.
