According to the reports from BBC, Sunderland are set to complete the signing of Swansea City’s fullback Declan John on a six-month loan. The left-back has been out of favour at Swansea this season as he made just one appearance in the Championship which came as a substitute against Middlesbrough.
John is a seven times Wales international and has played for Rangers and Cardiff City before. Sunderland are currently fifth in the table in League One, and they are going through an impressive run of form. The Wearside outfit have the best defence in the division as they have conceded just 24 goals in 27 games.
Where will John fit in?
Sunderland have usually played in a 3-4-3 system, and John is likely being seen as an option to play in the left wing-back role. Denver Hume has been a regular for the Black Cats in that position so far this season, but apart from him, Sunderland lacks a left-sided midfielder or a fullback. Hence, it is understandable why the Wearside outfit are on the lookout for a left wing-back, and they have seemingly found their man in John.
What will John bring to the table?
The 24-year-old moved to Swansea in 2018, but he has featured just 18 times for them. It is fair to say that he hasn’t been able to establish himself for the Championship outfit after his move from Rangers.
John is known as an attack-minded fullback, and his standout asset is his pace. His ability to carry the ball forward would certainly trouble defenders in the English third tier, and John has the capability to produce decent crosses. The Welshman is always willing to support his team in attack.
However, that could be his undoing sometimes as he can be caught out of position whenever there is a transition or a quick turnover of possession. But that is the way with most modern-day fullbacks, and if Sunderland dominates their game, then John would be a handy player for them although at times he could be found wanting defensively.
The fans shouldn’t expect miracles from him, and he is not someone who would bring them to their feet. He is likely going to be a steady but an unspectacular signing. Given that the club lacks cover in the left wing-back department, we believe that the signing of Declan John could be a smart piece of business for the Black Cats as he would cover and bring in competition for places.
