It was always going to be a baptism of fire for David Moyes ever since the day he agreed to navigate Sunderland’s woeful ship. Moyes doesn’t have the luxury of financial muscle either to make severe and thumping ramifications to his side midway into the season to counter the shambolic performances by his side.
Placed rock bottom in the league table with three points separating them from the safe zone, the Black Cats find themselves amidst all sorts of trouble and misfortune and one might bet on their relegation this time around. Amongst the other laughable spheres, Sunderland’s defence has been the prime area of concern as they have conceded a whopping 42 goals in 22 outings in the league, which pretty much sums up their sorry state.
Further, Moyes has also been troubled by the lack of some of his first team players owing to the Africa Cup of Nations and injuries. Undoubtedly, bringing defensive reinforcements is the paramount priority for the former Manchester United manager in the concluding stages of the January transfer window. To cater to their needs, Sunderland are examining Queens Park Rangers’ Nedum Onuoha in order to rope him to the Stadium of Light.
The 30-year-old has arguably been the best performer of the London-based club so far this season in the Championship, winning 24 tackles with a success rate of 43%, making 44 interceptions, 153 clearances and 20 blocks in 26 appearances and not to mention a couple of goals he has to his name. Onuoha has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave in the ongoing transfer window which might be one of the reasons why Moyes might get the man he is looking for.
The former England U21 defender can be engineered at the heart of defence as well as the right-back role which can come really handy for Sunderland in their quest of remaining clear of the relegation zone. His athleticism, tenacity, well-built physique and commendable leadership traits has drawn admirers from far and wide, including a Premier League side like Sunderland.
The Englishman is very able, has plenty of experience, is a superb defender on the right back position and unarguably, an impetus Sunderland need at the moment. Aiming a player who has been in a sensational form, it would only help Moyes & co. to yield dividends if they can fork out a deal with QPR, who would definitely be reluctant to let him leave.
