After their demotion to the Championship, Sunderland hasn’t really upped the ante so far in order to pave their way into the playoff spots. The Black Cats succumbed terribly last season in the Premier League and their apparent sporadic run of form in the English second division might hinder their prospects of getting the uplift considerably.
Simon Grayson’s side lost 3-0 at the hands of Barnsley on Saturday and despite their ramifications up front, the offensive tactical nous hasn’t fallen in place properly. Sunderland have tried to beef up their attacking arsenal significantly this summer, with the likes of James Vaughan, Tyias Browning and Lewis Grabban making a move to the Stadium of Light. However, Simon Grayson is still far from being a satisfied man.
As per one of the latest reports by Burton Mail, the Tyne and Wear based outfit are looking forward to making a late dash in order to sign Sheffield Wednesday’s hitman Jordan Rhodes.
It is perceived that they have enquired about the availability of Rhodes, although any bid is yet to be launched from their side. The Owls signed him for £8million during the January transfer window but is has failed to convince Carlos Carvalhal so far.
Rhodes emerged through the youth ranks of Barnsley and Ipswich Town, before being promoted to the senior side of the latter. His subsequent spells with Huddersfield Town and Blackburn Rovers were absolutely productive and fantastic, but after his move to Middlesbrough in the January transfer window of 2016, his career has seen a downward trajectory and he has failed to live up to his calibre even after penning a deal with the Hillsborough based side.
Nonetheless, Grayson had worked with Rhodes when he was in-charge of the Terriers and is familiar with his calibre. The 27-year-old is a lethal attacker when he is on song and is very clinical as well. He sniffs for goals and has the technical understanding of the game. Further, he has an imposing physique which makes him act in a very sound manner in the air, he tries to outmuscle his opponents and always intends to make something happen in the final third.
He has been handed 4 appearances in the Championship by Sheffield Wednesday but he is yet to find the back of the net. Looking at his career graph, it wouldn’t be absurd to state that his form has diluted considerably but given the experience he possesses, he might be a risk which could pay substantial dividends for Sunderland if Grayson channelizes his calibre in an astute manner.
