Sunderland are looking to head back into the Championship at the end of this season and are currently on the third spot in the league table. They would hope to decrease the difference between them and the League One leaders Portsmouth to a single point when they take on AFC Wimbledon in their next match in the competition.
The Black Cats are well aware of the fact that it would not be an easy job to win the League One and are looking to add more steel to their squad for the rest of the season. Reportedly, they have eyed their former midfield ace Grant Leadbitter, who is currently plying his trade with Middlesbrough in the Championship, for a transfer.
As per Sunderland Echo, the 33-year-old midfielder is on the top of the target list for the Black Cats this January. He has been a gritty customer in the heart of the pitch for Middlesbrough but has not seen much of the action this season. The report also states that the Boro are looking to make a move for Jon Obi Mikel who is available on a free transfer and might let Leadbitter leave.
Sunderland already have the likes of George Honeyman, Lee Cattermole and Aiden McGeady putting in good shifts for them in the midfield and the addition of an experienced player like Leadbitter would provide them with an edge over the rivals.
The 33-year-old former Ipswich Town ace has a very calm and composed attitude when it comes to taking on the opposition players, and that would undoubtedly help Jack Ross’ side for the rest of the season.
However, given the fact that the player is already 33, Leadbitter would not come into the side as a long term option. If Sunderland could land him, the experienced midfielder would be there to hold the midfield together for the next couple of seasons.
Jack Ross has been bang on with his decision making this season so far, helping his side go from strength to strength in the League One. The addition of Leadbitter could be one such for the Scottish gaffer, which would surely add a lot of stability and composure to the Sunderland midfield. While we are not entirely convinced about the wisdom of getting this former Sunderland player on board, we would have to give deference to Ross’ judgement given his excellent track record so far.
